Source: Chris Slater | www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk

A plane made an emergency landing and was greeted by emergency services at Manchester Airport after ‘smoke was seen in the cockpit.’ British Airways flight BA1369 from Heathrow to Manchester landed shortly before 5pm this evening.

Airport fire engines were seen following the aircraft, which was taken to a remote stand, down the runway. A spokesperson for Manchester Airport said the plane landed as an emergency as a precaution’ after ‘smoke was seen in the cockpit.’

The runway remained open at all times but two other flights performed ‘go-arounds’ before landing themselves.

Once the BA plane had touched down and been brought to a standstill, it was examined and there was deemed to be ‘no cause for concern’ and all passengers were allowed off as normal, the spokesman said. He added BA would now carry out their own investigation into what caused it.

The airline told the Manchester Evening News the plane encountered a ‘minor technical issue.; In a statement, they said: “Our flight crew requested a priority landing due to a minor technical issue. The aircraft landed safely and customers disembarked normally.”

A source said the presence of emergency services was ‘in line with normal procedure.’