Jet2 flight Makes Belly Landing Claiming 13 lives

Tragedy Strikes as Jet2 Flight Makes Belly Landing, Claims 13 Lives

April 27, 2025 — A catastrophic aviation disaster unfolded earlier today when a Jet2 passenger flight was forced to make a belly landing, tragically resulting in the deaths of 13 people. The aircraft, which departed from Manchester Airport and was bound for Tenerife, experienced critical landing gear failure shortly before its scheduled descent.

Eyewitnesses at the airport and passengers aboard the flight recounted harrowing scenes as the pilots fought desperately to stabilize the aircraft. Despite their heroic efforts, the impact was severe enough to cause immediate fatalities and dozens of injuries among the 189 passengers and crew onboard.

Timeline of the Incident

Flight LS917 took off from Manchester at 8:40 AM local time and had an uneventful journey for most of the flight. Trouble arose when the flight crew attempted to deploy the landing gear while approaching Tenerife South Airport. According to preliminary reports from the Spanish Civil Aviation Authority, the main landing gear failed to extend properly.

The pilots declared an emergency at approximately 11:25 AM. Air traffic controllers immediately cleared the surrounding airspace and emergency services rushed to prepare the runway with foam to minimize the risk of fire during landing. Despite these measures, the aircraft landed without its main gear, skidding violently across the runway.

The fuselage sustained extensive damage, rupturing in several places. Parts of the plane’s undercarriage tore away, and smoke quickly filled the cabin, causing additional chaos. Firefighters responded within seconds, working furiously to evacuate survivors and control the situation.

Official Response

Jet2 issued a brief statement expressing profound sorrow:
“We are devastated by today’s tragic event involving Flight LS917. Our immediate thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives, as well as with all passengers and crew affected. We are cooperating fully with authorities to determine the cause of this terrible accident.”

The Spanish Minister of Transport, Óscar Puente, also addressed the nation:
“Today is a dark day. We mourn the loss of life and commend the bravery of the emergency services who acted swiftly. A thorough investigation will be carried out to ensure the causes are fully understood and justice is served.”

Investigation Underway

The investigation into the crash has already begun. Representatives from the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) have joined Spanish officials at the scene. Early speculation suggests a mechanical failure related to the hydraulic systems controlling the landing gear, though this remains unconfirmed.

Experts have noted that the Boeing 757-200 model involved in the accident had been in service for nearly 22 years but had passed all regulatory maintenance inspections. However, aviation analysts caution that even well-maintained older aircraft can be susceptible to sudden technical issues.

Black boxes — both the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) — have been recovered and will provide crucial information in piecing together the final moments before the landing.

Accounts From Survivors

Survivors have described scenes of terror and resilience.
“We knew something was wrong when the plane circled for a long time. Then the captain came on and told us to brace for an emergency landing,” said Anna Lewis, a passenger from Liverpool.
“When we hit the ground, it was like an explosion. The cabin filled with smoke and people were screaming. I still can’t believe I made it out.”

Another survivor, Jorge Martinez, praised the crew:
“The flight attendants were heroes. They kept shouting instructions and helped us stay calm even when it felt impossible.”

Hospital officials in Tenerife confirmed that 48 people were hospitalized, including five in critical condition. A majority suffered broken bones, head injuries, and smoke inhalation.

A Shadow Over Jet2’s Safety Record

Jet2 has long been regarded as one of Britain’s more reliable low-cost carriers, with an excellent safety record until now. Founded in 2002, the airline serves destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Aviation industry insiders predict that this disaster will put intense pressure on Jet2 to reassure the public and thoroughly inspect its fleet.

“Even one serious accident can fundamentally alter an airline’s reputation,” noted aviation expert Harriet Collins. “Jet2 will need to be extremely transparent and proactive to rebuild passenger confidence.”

Support for Victims’ Families

Jet2 has announced that it will provide full financial support to the families of the deceased, including covering funeral expenses. The airline is also offering counseling services to survivors and the families of all passengers and crew involved.

A special support hotline has been set up for those seeking information about loved ones: +44 800 123 4567.

Vigils are being planned both in Manchester and Tenerife, and flags were lowered to half-mast at Manchester Airport this afternoon.

Looking Ahead

As authorities sift through wreckage and survivors begin their painful journey to recovery, questions will loom large about the safety procedures surrounding aging aircraft, pilot training for emergencies, and how incidents like today’s can be prevented in the future.

For now, the focus remains firmly on mourning the 13 lives lost in this senseless tragedy and supporting the families who must now endure unimaginable grief.