An Azerbaijan Airlines Airbus A320 dramatically overran the runway at St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport, coming to a halt on the grass beside runway 28R.

Landing Gear Trouble Sparks Emergency

Flight AHY020 hit trouble shortly after takeoff, stopping its climb at 6,000 feet due to landing gear issues. The crew made two low passes before circling for an hour. After multiple attempts, they declared a Mayday and touched down safely just after midnight (0040Z).

Three Hours Burning Fuel Before Safe Touchdown

According to Azerbaijan Airlines, the A320 spent nearly three hours circling over St. Petersburg to burn off excess fuel before the final approach. “To ensure maximum flight safety, the captain decided to return to Pulkovo due to a technical issue with the landing gear,” the airline confirmed.

All Passengers Safe and Evacuated

All 155 passengers were swiftly evacuated without injuries. A lucky escape amid tense moments over Russia’s skies.