Landing Gear Collapse: Emergency Evacuation in Nairobi

 In mid-2024, a Johannesburg-to-Nairobi flight encountered a serious landing gear malfunction while on final approach. As the pilots initiated the landing sequence, the system indicated that the left main gear had not locked into position. Multiple attempts were made to cycle the gear, but the warning light persisted. Realizing the danger of a partial gear landing, the crew declared an emergency and kept passengers informed. After burning excess fuel to reduce the landing weight, the pilots prepared for a difficult touchdown. On landing, the right gear and nose gear extended normally, but the left side collapsed, causing the aircraft to tilt and scrape along the runway. Sparks and smoke surrounded the plane as emergency crews rushed to the scene. Despite the dramatic landing, all passengers were safely evacuated, with only a few reporting minor injuries. Later inspection revealed a fractured hydraulic actuator that prevented the gear from locking. The incident demonstrated the importance of emergency training, quick decision-making, and coordinated response between flight crews and ground teams in preventing a mechanical failure from turning into a disaster.