An Air New Zealand flight was forced to abandon its landing approach at Queenstown Airport on Sunday due to strong winds, according to passenger accounts. The incident occurred as the aircraft attempted to land in gusty conditions, prompting the pilot to perform a go-around.
Passenger Jono, who was on board, described the experience as unlike anything he had witnessed before. "It was very exaggerated. I don't think I've ever seen a plane sort of snapping that far over to the left and right before," he said, referring to the aircraft's movements during the approach.
The flight eventually landed safely after the go-around. Air New Zealand confirmed the diversion, citing strong winds as the reason. No injuries were reported.
Queenstown Airport is known for its challenging approach due to surrounding mountains and variable weather conditions. The airport has procedures in place for such events, and pilots are trained to handle go-arounds.
