Horror as body found in landing gear of plane at Gatwick Airport

A body was discovered in the landing gear of a commercial aircraft that landed at Gatwick Airport in the United Kingdom on June 16, 2026. The incident occurred during the arrival of an Air Arabia flight originating from Tangier, Morocco. According to reports, the plane had departed from Morocco earlier that day and arrived at Gatwick shortly after 11:30 a.m. British Summer Time. Emergency personnel were summoned following the discovery of the body within the undercarriage of the aircraft.

The man, who remains unidentified, was described as a black male from The Gambia. His presence in the landing gear suggests he had managed to board the aircraft without detection, likely by hiding in the undercarriage area prior to departure. This method of clandestine travel, known as stowing away, has previously led to tragic outcomes in the UK. For instance, in 2001, the body of Mohammed Ayaz, a 21-year-old from Pakistan, was found in the parking lot of a DIY store near Heathrow Airport. Similarly, in 2012, a stowaway from Mozambique named Jose Matada perished after falling from the landing gear of a flight en route to Heathrow from Angola.

The case involving the man found at Gatwick echoes these past incidents, highlighting the dangers associated with such actions. Stowaways often face severe risks, including hypothermia, hypoxia, and potential hearing damage due to the extreme conditions inside the undercarriage. Moreover, there is a significant danger of being crushed when the landing gear retracts during flight. Despite these hazards, some individuals have survived similar situations. A notable example includes a South African man who clung to the landing gear of a flight departing from Johannesburg in 2015 and later emerged safely in London.

Air Arabia, the airline operating the flight in question, issued a statement confirming that the incident was identified upon arrival at Gatwick. They stated that all relevant authorities were immediately informed and that the company was coordinating closely with them throughout the investigation. A representative from London Gatwick Airport also commented on the situation, expressing support for the ongoing efforts of the local police and the coroner. The airport emphasized its commitment to assisting in the inquiry and offered condolences to those affected.

Sussex Police confirmed that an investigation has been initiated into the circumstances surrounding the discovery. The police have begun preparing a file for the coroner, indicating that the matter will be examined thoroughly. The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of security measures at airports in Morocco and elsewhere, particularly concerning how individuals might evade detection and gain access to the undercarriage of an aircraft.

As the investigation unfolds, attention will likely focus on understanding the broader implications of such occurrences. These events underscore the need for enhanced security protocols and greater awareness among travelers regarding the risks involved in attempting to board flights illicitly. The outcome of this case could influence future policies and practices aimed at preventing similar tragedies.