Statement: Incident involving the presidential aricraft

The Presidential aircraft, Falcon 900, was tasked to perform a special mission to Malabu today 3 March 2015. On departure from the Kotoka International Airport, the crew experienced slight operational problems with the computer system. As a result, the aircraft returned to the Air Force Base in Accra to reset the computers.

During the second run for take-off, the aircraft lost two main left wheels. Inspite of the serious veering of the aircraft to the left, they managed to slow and successfully turned off the runway without veering into the shoulders of the runway. The aircraft stopped successfully.

It was observed however that the left wheels were on fire. Emergency procedures were followed with the disembarkation of the passengers and the fighting of the fire. Fire extinguishers on board were used to bring the situation under control. Fire tenders from the Air Force Base and that of the main airport also arrived immediately to assist in putting off the fire completely.

Preliminary investigations indicate the fire was caused as a result of friction between the wheels and the runway surface. Special Occurrence Report has been sent to the Air Force Headquarters and a special investigation team is being composed.

Signed

ANDY LA-ANYANE

Lieutenant Commander

Deputy Director (Information and Press Relations)

for Acting Director Public Relations