1 hour ago
1
Passengers were heard screaming as they made their exists from the plane.
17:10, Tue, Jul 7, 2026 Updated: 17:32, Tue, Jul 7, 2026
Panicked passengers had to use slide exits (Image: East2West)
Panicked passengers slid down emergency chutes to safety after a Tez Jet plane’s landing gear dramatically collapsed during take-off in Kyrgyzstan. Heart-stopping footage captured the terrifying moment the MD-83 aircraft tilted sharply onto its side amid screams echoing through the cabin at Manas International Airport in Bishkek. The drama unfolded on Tuesday, July 7, as the twin-engine jet, operating a domestic flight to Osh, began its acceleration down the runway.
According to initial reports, the left rear landing gear suddenly gave way just as the plane was due to lift off. The pilots, sensing the malfunction while the aircraft was still accelerating relatively slowly, managed to bring it to a controlled stop. However, the sudden collapse caused the plane to lurch violently, with the left wing digging into the tarmac and the lower empennage — the entire tail section — ripping completely off. Jet fuel began spilling across the runway, creating a terrifying immediate hazard.
Get the latest news from around the world and more Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
?????? MD-83 Suffers Landing Gear Collapse in Kyrgyzstan
Passengers aboard a Tez Jet MD-83 sustained minor injuries after the aircraft suffered a left main landing gear collapse while landing on Runway 26 at Manas International Airport in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
The aircraft was…
Fire crews rushed to the scene to contain the leak and prevent any risk of fire, though none broke out. All 181 passengers and crew were safely evacuated using inflatable emergency slides. Video circulating online shows terrified travellers, including a baby, sliding down the bright plastic chutes onto the tarmac.
Bewildered passengers then gathered in clusters nearby, staring back at the stricken white jet lying awkwardly on its side, surrounded by debris and pools of fuel.
Several people suffered minor cuts and bruises during the chaotic exit, but miraculously, there were no serious injuries.
The aircraft, tail number EX-80017, was a McDonnell Douglas MD-83 built in December 1999. It is part of the ageing MD-80 family once common in commercial aviation. All flights from the busy Central Asian hub were suspended following the incident while authorities investigate.
This close call comes shortly after a similar scare at Frankfurt Airport last month, when a Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s front landing gear collapsed on the tarmac, injuring ground staff.
Aviation officials have launched a full inquiry into the Tez Jet incident to determine the exact cause of the gear failure. Passengers described scenes of pure cabin terror before the safe but dramatic evacuation.
Get top stories from The Express sent straight to your phone Join us on WhatsApp
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: /news
Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow our social media accounts here on facebook.com/DailyExpress and @daily_express
English (US) · 