London CityJet plane forced to make emergency landing after 'part of wing fell off'

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Passengers travelling on a CityJet flight were left "terrified" when a section of the plane’s wing became detached shortly after take-off.

Footage captured by a Telegraph journalist who was on board at the time appears to show part of the engine housing hanging off the wing of the Avro RJ85 aircraft.

The plane was taking off from London City Airport for Florence when alarmed passengers reported hearing a loud bang.

Journalist Cole Moreton said: "On take-off there was a strange noise then a bang and six-foot plus section of the left wing that looked like suddenly came loose and hung down, flapping in the jetstream.

“It seemed hydraulic pistons had snapped as they were flapping too. Passengers were alarmed and told the cabin staff, who appeared to inform the captain"

He said the plane then circled the Thames estuary before making an emergency landing back at London City Airport, where it was met by an emergency crew. None of the 61 passengers on board at the time were injured during the incident.

A spokesperson for CityJet said: "The WX 281 flight had just taken off from London City Airport on its way to Florence when the cover of the operating mechanism on the wing became partially detached.

"The crew followed their standard procedures and, after a discussion with CityJet Maintenance Control, decided to return to London City Airport.

"Air Traffic Control were notified and the aircraft returned making a normal approach and landing. Passengers are being re-directed on another aircraft and will depart with a two hour delay.’"