Aircraft Landing Gear Collapses in Germany

The nose landing gear of a parked Boeing 787 aircraft collapsed unexpectedly at Frankfurt Airport in Germany, injuring several employees, according to the aircraft’s operator, Lufthansa.

In a statement, a Lufthansa spokesperson said there were no passengers on board at the time of the incident. However, crew members and ground staff were inside and around the aircraft when the accident occurred.

The airline confirmed that several employees sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

According to a Reuters photographer at the scene, multiple emergency response vehicles were stationed around the twin-engine long-haul aircraft. The plane was seen partially resting on its belly on the apron after the nose gear gave way.

Lufthansa said the incident occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. local time in Germany. The aircraft had been scheduled to operate Flight LH450 from Frankfurt to Los Angeles.

“We are currently working closely with the relevant authorities to determine the exact cause and circumstances of the incident,” the company said.

Lufthansa Group operates the Boeing 787-9 variant, and the aircraft involved is a relatively new addition to its fleet. The airline is gradually phasing out less fuel-efficient aircraft as part of its strategy to modernize and simplify its fleet.