A Cape Air flight was forced to return to the airport shortly after takeoff when the aircraft’s cabin door partially opened mid-air. The aircraft was bound for Boston Logan International Airport from Nantucket Memorial Airport in Massachusetts when the alarming but ultimately casualty-free incident took place.
A potentially dangerous incident
The incident took place on Monday, April 6, after the flight departed Nantucket without any issues reported. However, early into the journey, the upper portion of the cabin door reportedly opened while the aircraft was in flight. Footage obtained by CBS News shows the open door and window area sitting partially open as the plane flies over the ocean, with passengers seated immediately beside it.
Despite this, the aircraft remained stable and was able to make a U-turn and safely return to Nantucket Memorial Airport. No injuries occurred to passengers or crew, and travellers were later able to board another flight to Boston that arrived without disruption.
Cape Air responds
Passengers from the flight have subsequently spoken out to praise the plane’s pilot for her calm, professional handling of the incident. Lexi Hitchcock, who was on board, told the Nantucket Current:
“The pilot was amazing that’s all I have to say. As soon as the door opened she said it was okay and no need to worry. We were up in the air for about 10 minutes until the door opened. It sounded like a massive gust of wind. The pilot did not panic but safely brought us back around the island to land. Probably flew for about 6 to 8 minutes with the door open. Scary and chilly for sure.”
The plane, a small 1970s-era Cessna 402 aircraft, has been taken out of service for investigation by Cape Air. In a statement, the airline’s northeast regional marketing manager, Mary Stanley, said:
“We are following all established safety procedures and will take any necessary actions based on our findings. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority.”
It has not yet been reported whether the cause of the incident has been determined by relevant authorities.
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