Plane makes emergency landing at Parafield

A pilot has had a lucky escape after making an emergency landing at Parafield Airport in South Australia overnight.

Police say that just after midnight, emergency services responded to a notification of a twin engine aircraft requiring an emergency landing at the airport.

“The pilot reported a fault with the nose wheel and could not confirm it was locked down in preparation for landing,” SA Police said in a statement.

“Several lower altitude fly-bys confirmed the nose wheel could not be seen in the down position.”

Police and other emergency services, including MFS, SAAS and airport safety officers prepared for an emergency landing.

“Just before 1.30am, the pilot initiated a final approach and landed on two wheels. As the plane decelerated, the nose of the aircraft came down and collided with the tarmac,” SA Police said.

“There was no fire, no fuel spill and no reported injuries to the pilot or passenger, who were both able to self-extricate from the plane.”

Police said the aircraft will be examined for mechanical problems and a report will be prepared for the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).