An Airlink flight had to do emergency landing shortly after take-off at the OR Tambo International Airport, the company said on Friday.
Flight SA8739, carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, was forced to ground on its belly on Thursday night after experiencing problems with its nose-wheel, said spokeswoman Karin Murray in a statement.
The aircraft landed safely at 9.20pm with its nose-wheel retracted, said Murray.
The flight departed the airport at 7.10pm and was expected to land at Pietermaritzburg at 7.40pm.
“In accordance with procedure, the crew turned back to OR Tambo International and burned off fuel before landing. None of the passengers or crew were hurt in the emergency landing,” said Murray.
CEO Rodger Roster said the company would provide alternative travel arrangements for the passengers.
The Civil Aviation Authority has been informed of the incident, he said, adding that the company would provide any support needed by investigators. - Sapa