A passenger jet was forced into a dramatic go-around after the pilots spotted fireworks bursting along their approach to the airport.
The aircraft was coming in to land at Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, Guatemala, on Monday night (14 September).
But the pilots spotted fireworks being set off close to the aircraft’s final approach path during Independence Day celebrations.
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The Avianca crew responded by performing a go-around, abandoning the landing and climbing away from the runway.
The plane then rejoined the airport’s traffic circuit before making a second approach, as reported by Need To Know.
It eventually touched down safely, with no injuries or damage to the aircraft reported.
Avianca said flight AV700, travelling from Guatemala City to Flores, carried out the go-around “following safety protocols” because of the fireworks along its approach path.
The airline stressed that the aircraft was never declared to be in an emergency.
The aircraft was an Airbus A320-214, which can typically carry up to 180 passengers.
It is unclear exactly how many people were on board Monday’s flight.
Fireworks can pose a serious hazard to aircraft when launched near airports, particularly during the critical final stages of a flight.
They can temporarily affect pilots’ night vision or distract the crew, while pyrotechnics could potentially strike an aircraft or force pilots to make evasive manoeuvres.
Guatemala’s General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) has warned the public against setting off fireworks near airport approach and departure routes because of the risks to aviation safety.
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