Melania Trump plane forced to land after 'smoke and burning smell' fill cabin
Staff for the first lady say landing was caused by 'mechanical issue'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Melania Trump‘s plane has been forced to return to Washington, after a “haze of smoke” filled the cabin.
According to the media pool travelling with the first lady, a smell of burning and a thin layer of smoke filled the cabin about 10 minutes after take-off.
"A small amount of smoke could be seen inside the plane and the interior filled with a burning smell," a pool report said.
Reporters were brought wet towels and told to hold them over their faces if the smell became too strong.
The plane landed safely after what has been labelled a "mechanical issue".
By 10am reporters said they were boarding a second aircraft
The first lady's is on her way to Philadelphia - where she is due to visit a hospital.
Stephanie Grisham, communications director for Ms Trump, told CNN the incident was a “minor mechanical issue. Everything is fine and everyone is safe.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments