A flight attendant was injured after falling from a TUI aircraft at East Midlands Airport on December 16, 2023. The incident occurred at about 4:30 p.m. local time as the aircraft was preparing for departure. According to Simon Hinchley, EMAS Operations Director, first responders including the airport's fire crews attended the scene immediately. Hinchley stated, "Our fire crews attended an incident on Monday when a member of TUI cabin crew sustained injuries as an aircraft was preparing to depart." Emergency medical teams transported the injured crew member to the hospital, with officials wishing her a speedy recovery.
The unfortunate event unfolded when the flight attendant opened the aircraft door, expecting to find the stairs attached. Instead, they were not present, leading her to fall directly onto the tarmac. Notably, local media outlet Nottinghamshire Live reported on the incident, underscoring the potential danger of such scenarios at airports.
The Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) is currently investigating the incident, having stated, "An accident which occurred at East Midlands Airport on Monday 16th December was notified to the AAIB. An investigation has been launched and inspectors have visited the airport to gather evidence..." This investigation is particularly important as it aims to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
Meanwhile, the East Midlands area is also recalling the tragic Kegworth air disaster from January 8, 1989, when a British Midland Boeing 737 attempted to make an emergency landing and tragically crashed near the village of Kegworth, resulting in 47 fatalities out of its 126 passengers and crew. Residents still recall the harrowing details of the event. Motorists along the M1 witnessed the aircraft struggling and many jumped out of their vehicles to help.
Kegworth’s rector, Lauretta Wilson, spoke during the 30th anniversary commemoration held at St Andrew's Church, stating, "Kegworth has never forgotten...that dreadful event shook all the community, but out of it, a united spirit was forged..." This annual service serves as both a remembrance and tribute to the resilience of the community, commemorative rites reminiscing about acts of bravery during the emergency response.
Witnesses from the night still recall the frantic moments when they heard the engines struggling and saw the plane low over the village. Their memories detail how the community responded remarkably, bringing blankets and medical supplies to the scene. Helen Muir, Professor of Aircraft Safety at Cranfield University, reflected on the lessons learned from the Kegworth incident, stating, "Planes are safer as a consequence of Kegworth. The UK has pretty much led the world in terms of safety advancements." This has motivated changes within the airline industry, from enhanced pilot training to stronger seat designs.
On another note, January 18 marked another sighting of beauty across the East Midlands, with Venus and the crescent Moon gracing the night sky, captivating stargazers. Observers from across Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Nottinghamshire captured stunning photos of this celestial event. Known as the Evening Star, Venus often outshines other stars, making it highly visible with the naked eye. Reports indicated, this month is ideal for observing not only Venus but also Saturn, as they will align closely on January 18.
This blend of incidents at East Midlands Airport—from the tragic accidents of the past, which shaped aviation safety regulations, to the beauty of connecting with nature through stargazing—enables the region to embrace its layered history and community spirit, showcasing both resilience and wonder. Events like these create distinct memories for those living nearby.
The injuries sustained by the flight attendant serve as a reminder of the importance of safety measures at airports, and as investigations continue, the community will undoubtedly reflect on both the recent and historical significance pertaining to their local airport. The East Midlands region continues to hold both cherished memories and stark reminders of the human experience.