Aircraft Engineer Falls 35 Feet from Jet2 Plane at Manchester Airport

An aircraft engineer in his sixties fell from the rear door of a Jet2 passenger plane at Manchester Airport on Saturday morning. The fall measured about 35 feet to the tarmac. Emergency services from the North West Ambulance Service responded to the scene with multiple vehicles and ambulances.

m. on April 11, 2026, involving a plane scheduled to depart for Tenerife. A witness at the airport reported that the engineer had been told steps were on the left side of the aircraft but opened the wrong door.

When he realized the mistake, he tried to hold onto the door, but wind pulled him out.

The engineer hit the tarmac face first and sustained fractures to both legs, both elbows, and his eye sockets.

The injuries also reportedly caused brain swelling. He was transported to Manchester Royal Infirmary, where he underwent surgery. The witness stated that the engineer extended his knees and arms to break the fall, which contributed to his injuries.

At the time, responders did not immediately recognize the full extent of the harm. The drop height of 35 feet from the aircraft door was a key factor in the severity.

A Jet2 spokesperson said on Saturday: "We are aware of an incident that took place at Manchester Airport this morning (Saturday April 11) involving an individual from a third-party provider.

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“We are unable to confirm further details at present, however, can confirm that a full investigation has been launched. We are doing our best to provide support to everyone who needs it.”

The engineer worked for a third-party provider at the airport. The investigation will examine the circumstances of the door opening and safety protocols. No further details on the engineer's condition have been released.