The Boeing 747-SP jet used by the Cuyahoga Falls-based Ernest Angley Ministries was involved in what appears to be a landing gear mishap during touch-and-go exercises today at Akron-Canton Airport.
No injuries were reported but witnesses reported hearing several loud bangs and noticed debris on the runway. The jetliner was performing the take-off and touch-down maneuvers as part of semi-annual qualification, according to some accounts.
Akron-Canton Airport spokesperson Kristie Van Auken says five people were board the jet at the time of the mishap, around the lunch hour. She did not know if Angley was among those on the aircraft.
The image at left (credit: Jamie M www.747sp.com) is the jet used by Angley Ministries for travel around the world.
There were reports the hard landing blew out tires on the aircraft, which had to be cleared from the runway.
An incoming and a departing flight had to be delayed while the runway was cleared; the in-air flight circled CAK while the departing flight remained on the runway while crews made sure the blown tire debris was removed. Both flights left after the half-hour delay.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate as normal operation during any such event. While the aircraft may be parked at Akron-Canton Airport, it must qualify for flight time every six months.
