Royal Jordanian Falcons’ Extra 330LX Crash Lands in Belgium: Pilot Injured but Safe

Bleid, Belgium – In a dramatic incident this Monday, an Extra 330LX aircraft belonging to the well-known Royal Jordanian Falcons aerobatic team made an emergency crash landing late in the afternoon, shortly before 6 p.m. The incident unfolded in Bleid, a serene commune of Virton, near Rue du Haron. The pilot and a passenger aboard the two-seater plane sustained injuries but survived the crash and were promptly taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

The Royal Jordanian Falcons are a celebrated fixture at European airshows each summer. The team arrives in Europe aboard the Royal Jordanian Air Force C-130s for their much-anticipated European tour, dazzling audiences with their precision flying and aerobatic prowess. This year, the team has already performed in France, the UK, Ireland, and Italy. They were en route to the final airshow of their European tour, the International Sanicole Airshow in Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium, when the mishap occurred. The team had just showcased their skills at the Jesolo Airshow on Saturday and the Ligano Airshow on Sunday in Italy.

Extra 330LX of the Royal Jordanian Falcons
Birr Air Display 2023

Formed in 1976, the Royal Jordanian Falcons are based at Amman International Airport. Over the years, they have become a staple and beloved participant in airshows worldwide. Initially, the team flew three Pitts S-2A Specials, but in 2007, they transitioned to four fast and nimble Walter Extra-300L aircraft. Since 2018, they have been flying the Extra 300LX, a more modern and capable version of the Extra design, enhancing their performance capabilities and allowing for even more intricate and breathtaking manoeuvres.

The Royal Jordanian Falcons serve as ambassadors for Jordan, showcasing the country’s aviation expertise and fostering goodwill wherever they perform. Their displays are a testament to the skill and dedication of their pilots and crew, who undergo rigorous training to perfect their manoeuvres. The team performs around the world, acting not only as an ambassador for Jordan but also demonstrating the country’s aviation prowess.

The Royal Jordanian Falcons’ presence at airshows is a reminder of the universal appeal of aviation and the spirit of international cooperation and friendship that it fosters. Despite the setback, the team is expected to continue their tradition of excellence and inspire future generations of aviators.

For now, the focus remains on the recovery of the injured crew members and the investigation into the cause of the crash. The aviation community around the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a swift resolution and the safe return of the Royal Jordanian Falcons to the skies. The team’s indomitable spirit and commitment to their craft ensure that they will soar once again, continuing to captivate and inspire audiences around the globe.