Trump Plane Makes Emergency Landing After Hydraulic Malfunction
Former President Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump experienced a tense mid-air emergency Friday evening when their private jet was forced to make an unscheduled landing due to a hydraulic malfunction.
The aircraft, en route from Palm Beach, Florida, to a campaign event in Ohio, suffered a “minor hydraulic issue” about 40 minutes into the flight. Pilots diverted the plane and landed safely under emergency protocols. No injuries were reported.
Witnesses described a dramatic scene as fire trucks and ambulances lined the runway. “Everyone held their breath until the wheels hit the ground,” one bystander said.
The FAA confirmed that the hydraulic system—which controls landing gear, flaps, and brakes—had malfunctioned. An investigation is underway to determine whether a leak or pressure drop caused the issue.
Trump’s campaign released a statement saying, “President Trump and First Lady Melania are safe following an emergency landing earlier today due to a minor mechanical issue… We thank the pilots and emergency personnel for their professionalism.”
Aviation experts praised the crew’s quick action, noting that hydraulic failures can escalate rapidly. “The pilots’ training likely prevented a much worse outcome,” said retired pilot Dennis Loring.
The plane involved is believed to be Trump’s Boeing 757, known as “Trump Force One,” which underwent major refurbishments in recent years.
Both Donald and Melania Trump later thanked the pilots and first responders. “They did an incredible job,” Trump said.
The FAA and NTSB are investigating the cause, and the aircraft will remain grounded for inspection. Despite the scare, Trump’s team says he remains undeterred and plans to resume campaign travel soon.
