Ellinair Flight to Moscow Lands Safely in Thessaloniki after Technical Problem

An Ellinair B737-300 aircraft from Thessaloniki to Moscow made a forced landing at Macedonia Airport in Thessaloniki on Friday, at 16:02 local time. There were 147 passengers and 5 crew members on board. All passengers and crew evacuated safely.

According to a statement by the airline, on August 5 at 14:20 (local), Ellinair flight EN 904 departed from Thessaloniki’s Macedonia airport to Moscow Sheremetyevo airport.

Shortly after takeoff, the captain noticed a problem with the folding of the front wheel. In consultation with the control tower, he decided to make rounds in the area, until much of the fuel was consumed.

The aircraft was visible from the control tower of Thessaloniki and air traffic controllers confirmed that all three wheels were in position for landing.

The aircraft then landed at the Macedonia Airport in Thessaloniki safely at 16:02, after flying for about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

After landing, passengers were offered refreshments and lunch and departed at 20:10 to their destination with another aircraft Ellinair.

“This incident resulted from a technical problem, which does not endanger the safety of passengers”, Ellinair underlined in its statement.

“Ellinair feels the need to apologize to the passengers of the flight for the inconvenience created and repeats its commitment and dedication in complying with all international safety regulations for flights.”