Hole forces plane to make emergency landing

(25 July 2008)

A full passenger plane flying from London to Melbourne has been forced to make an emergency landing in the Philippines after a large hole appeared in its fuselage.

The Qantas Airways plane had just left Hong Kong when passengers heard a loud bang and wind began rushing through the passenger compartment. Several people reported seeing objects flying out of the aircraft.

Flight QF30 plunged 4500m (15,000ft) before levelling out and diverting to Manila, where it made a safe emergency landing.

All 346 passengers and 19 crew were safely led from the plane, although several were treated for shock.

Qantas officials said engineers were investigating what might have caused the gash in the plane.

Passengers are being accommodated in Manila overnight, before being flown on to Melbourne tomorrow.