GEORGETOWN – An American Airlines aircraft with more than 100 passengers on board was forced to return to the terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) after it was struck with what is believed to have been a circuit box for runway lights while taxing.
This is the second incident involving an American Airline plane in a two week period.
Neither the airline or aviation officials have so far issued any formal statement on the incident, but sources said that three of the aircrafts tyres were damaged as a result of the incident early on Wednesday morning
One unidentified passenger, who was on the plane, told reporters that there was poor visibility because of heavy fog at the time of departure and it appeared as though the pilot might have ventured too far out to the edge of the runway, colliding with the piece of equipment.
Passengers were forced to disembark the plane and return to the departure lounge. A relief plane is expected later Wednesday.
The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority is expected to launch an investigation into the matter.
Last week, week an American Airlines flight was forced to return to Guyana after the aircraft developed a problem with its air conditioning system and cabin pressure.
The pilot spent more than three hours circling the airport to burn off enough fuel for landing. The plane eventually landed without any incident. (CMC)
