A NASA jet skidded across a Houston runway Tuesday after a mechanical failure prevented its landing gear from deploying.
Footage from Ellington Airport shows the research aircraft touching down before its belly scraped along the runway, sending sparks and flames trailing behind it.
Emergency crews rushed in moments later, helping the two pilots exit the aircraft as responders secured the scene, KHOU 11 News reported.
NASA confirmed that all crew members are safe. No additional details about the mechanical failure have been released.
The aircraft involved was a 60-year-old WB-57 high-altitude research jet based at NASA's Johnson Space Center near Ellington Field.
The WB-57 is a mid-wing, long-range aircraft capable of operation for extended periods of time from sea level to altitudes in excess of 63,000 feet.
NASA officials said the agency is reviewing Tuesday's incident and will release additional information once the review is complete.
'Today, a mechanical issue with one of NASA’s WB-57s resulted in a gear-up landing at Ellington Field,' NASA shared on X.
'Response to the incident is ongoing, and all crew are safe at this time.
'As with any incident, a thorough investigation will be conducted by NASA into the cause. NASA will transparently update the public as we gather more information.'
Flight tracking data show that the WB-57 took off from the airport around 10:19am CT (11:19am ET).
A large thud was heard when the aircraft crashed onto the runway, followed by a screeching sound as it slowed down.
The aircraft completed several touch-and-go landings before its final approach shortly after 1pm, when it was forced into a full stop after the landing gear failed to deploy. A fire truck and ambulance were rushed to the jet.
KHOU 11 also captured the moment the cabin hatch lifted, and firefighters helped the pilots out of the jet.
According to NASA, the WB-57 Program provides 'unique, high-altitude airborne platforms to US Government agencies, academic institutions, and commercial customers to support scientific research and advanced technology development and testing at locations around the world.'
Should NASA still be using 60-year-old jets for crucial research missions?
Comment now
Mission examples include atmospheric and earth science, ground mapping, cosmic dust collection, rocket launch support, and test bed operations for future airborne or spaceborne systems.
The WB-57 can fly for approximately 6.5 hours, has a range of approximately 2500 miles, and can carry up to 8,800 pounds of payload.
