A C-160 transport aircraft of the Turkish Air Force was compelled to make an emergency landing during a routine training exercise in Kayseri, central Turkey, due to a technical malfunction. The incident occurred as the aircraft was taking off from the Kayseri 12th Air Transport Base Command for a scheduled training session.
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The aircraft sustained minor damage, but the pilot and crew emerged unscathed from the emergency landing. "Our aircraft suffered minor damage," the Turkish Ministry of Defense said in a statement. "The health of our pilots and crew is good." Footage shared on social media shows the aircraft flying at low altitude over a road with its landing gears up. The aircraft was identified as tail number 69-036, which was used as an electronic reconnaissance platform.
Developed by the French-German consortium Transport Allianz, the Transall is a twin-engine aircraft that can transport approximately 16 tons of freight, 91 passengers, 60 equipped paratroopers, or 62 wounded on stretchers in medivac configuration. Since France and Germany retired the aircraft, respectively in 2021 and 2022, the Turkish Air Force is the last remaining operator of two C-160D Transall aircraft, flown by the 221st Squadron “Breeze”.
As an immediate response to the incident, authorities ordered air traffic control towers at Haneda and other airports across the country to constantly monitor radar systems for possible runway intrusions¹. This incident has brought to light the importance of constant vigilance and the need for updated equipment to ensure the safety of air travel. The incident is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the aviation industry and the need for constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. It underscores the importance of regular maintenance checks and the readiness of emergency response teams. The Turkish Ministry of Defense has assured that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the technical malfunction that led to the emergency landing¹. The findings of this investigation will be crucial in preventing similar incidents in the future and ensuring the safety of air travel.