Sir Elton John’s private jet was forced to make an emergency landing in “terrible weather”, after suffering a failure at 10,000ft.
The 74-year-old was due to fly to New York, but an hour into the trip the pilot had to make a U-turn while approaching the coast of Ireland as the aircraft suffered hydraulic failure.
The private jet then returned to Farnborough Airport in Hampshire where it had taken off, where ambulance crews, firefighters and police were waiting for them.
Speaking to The Sun, eyewitness Philip Thomson said: “The terrible weather and epic gusts made it almost impossible to land. Two attempts to touch down failed.”
“The plane was being buffeted and couldn’t make it. The aircraft’s nose was far too vertical. The plane was descending and was halfway along the runway when it gave up trying to hit the tarmac. It soared back in the air.”
“A crowd had gathered after word went around that Elton was in difficulty. And as the plane came around again for a second attempt to land, the storm was doing its worst.”
“It was only at the third attempt to land that the plane got down. The pilot made a flatter approach and the wind had dropped slightly. Everyone watching was mightily relieved.”
“It was a horrible thing to see, and you wouldn’t have swapped places with Elton on that small plane for anything. I bet he said a few prayers of thanks,” the eyewitness added.
Thankfully, Sir Elton was able to catch a later flight to perform at Madison Square Garden in New York on schedule.
Taking to Twitter, the singer let fans know he was okay by tweeting: “Hello New York! See you @TheGarden tonight #eltonfarewelltour.”
Hello New York! See you @TheGarden tonight 🚀🚀🚀#eltonfarewelltour pic.twitter.com/niSQqM79Ra
— Elton John (@eltonofficial) February 22, 2022
The veteran performer didn’t let the incident affect his stage presence, as fans at Madison Square Garden were quick to praise the star.
New Jersey’s Governor wrote on Twitter: “Had a great night seeing the Elton John Farewell Yellowbrick Road concert at Madison Square Garden with MP and Sarah. An amazing performer on his last trip around the circuit.”
Another fan said: “Elton at MSG. Fantastic. @eltonofficial @TheGarden.”
While a third added: “The ultimate showman. Thank you, Sir @eltonofficial.”
