An Emirates flight from Manchester was forced to divert to London after it developed an issue with its landing gear.

The Emirates A380 aircraft departed from Manchester airport at 1.30pm local time, but developed an issue with its landing gear shortly after take-off.

The superjumbo was forced to circle around the north of England for almost half an hour before proceeding to London where it landed safely at Heathrow airport just after 3pm (UK time).

Passengers were booked on to alternate flights to Dubai, according to an Emirates spokesperson.

“Emirates flight EK 18 from Manchester to Dubai on 12th March was diverted to London Heathrow shortly after take-off due to a technical fault. The aircraft landed safely at London Heathrow,” a spokesperson said.

“Passengers will be disembarked and rebooked on alternate Emirates flights for their onward journey to Dubai.

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“Emirates apologises for the inconvenience caused. The safety of our passengers and crew is of paramount importance and will not be compromised.”