The pilot on a Qantas flight that had to make an emergency landing in Brisbane due to a brake issue informed anxious passengers to prepare for impact.
Tudor Vasile was on flight QF1929 when it was forced to turn back while on the way to Adelaide.
He told 9News his fellow passengers were fearing the worst.
Vasile said the fear was palpable as the plane made a rapid approach to the runway.
“Everyone was looking around at each other, assuming the brace position… Goosebumps were felt, and panic started to set in as people wondered what would happen next.”
The pilot made a textbook landing before engineers rushed to examine the plane.
“I tell you, that was one hell of a joyride,” Vasile added.
“You sort of picture the worst but they crew, they just looked after us so well,” another passenger, Kurt Gray, said.
Flight QF1929 left Brisbane about 8.20am and about 40 minutes later the captain alerted passengers there was an issue with the brakes.
Qantas confirmed to 9news.com.au there had been a problem with the landing gear brakes and the flight landed back in Brisbane shortly before 10am.
“A flight from Brisbane to Adelaide returned to Brisbane shortly after take-off due to an issue with landing gear brakes,” a spokesperson said.
“Following the landing, the aircraft is undergoing inspection by engineers. We recognize that this situation was distressing for the passengers and we appreciate them for complying with the crew’s instructions.
“We are working hard to get customers on their way as quickly as possible. We will follow up with all customers to provide our support.”
The airline said early investigations indicate a faulty brake warning light was to blame.
