A plane at Heathrow was pictured surrounded by emergency services on the runway and appeared to be escorted back to the gate. According to the site FlightRadar24, the plane was forced to return to the airport due to “flap issues”.
YouTube channel FlightFocus365, which live streams aircraft movements, showed the plane surrounded by flashing emergency vehicles, including what appeared to be police and fire departments. An X user posted a screenshot of the picture with the caption: “Any idea what’s going on at LHR with this one?”. They later confirmed it was moving but “still escorted”.
FlightRadar24 attributed it to flap issues, which are hinged extensions on the trailing edge of aircraft wings. They extend during takeoff and landing to increase lift and drag and allow the aircraft to fly at lower speeds.
If the flaps on a plane are not functioning, the aircraft may need to fly at higher speeds for takeoff and landing. Pilots are trained to handle these situations, and safe landings can occur.