TEST TERROR: Crew loose control of new Embraer E190

Today a new Air Astana E190 was beginning a test flight in Portugal when the crew lost control.

Update: The issue was due to a hydraulic failure and it is confirmed it landed at Beja Air base after 3 attempts. It is also confirmed all 6 crew members are safe and the aircraft still remains in the military grounds.

The Embraer aircraft was on a test flight from Lisbon when the crew lost all control of the aircraft. It's widely reported that the aircraft was on a C check flight, However the crew faced a difficult decision whether to ditch or to attempt a landing.

P4-KCJ was seen on radars circling over Portugal and it was last seen on radar at 2,500 feet in the Viana do Alentejo area. The plane was intercepted by two F-16s whilst still in flight.

ATC reports suggest the crew were considering a ditch but the crew found an option to land at Beja Airbase on Runway 19R. The crew made a successful landing at the Portuguese airbase.

It was reported on several media platforms that flight KC1388 landed safely at the base. A great result to something that could of been a lot worse. The crew and ATC did a great job getting the plane down safely, well done to all involved.

Article by Kian McVicker from Miles To Go - Aviation Blogging