Post by Taxigirl on Jan 11, 2004 10:09:29 GMT
Manchester City's board of directors escaped unhurt when an engine blew up on the plane that was taking them home from a match in Portsmouth on Saturday.
Ten minutes into the flight, the pilot was forced into an emergency landing at Farnborough Airport in Surrey.
"It was terrifying. I was frightened to death. We all consider ourselves lucky to be alive," City chairman John Wardle told the Manchester Evening News.
"I don't drink that much but I'm having a double whisky now."
The plane containing the 14-strong party was met by fire crews and ambulances when it touched down south of London.
Former City star Dennis Tueart added: "I can honestly say I've never been so scared.
"There was a big bang and a lot of sparks and some fumes which got into the plane.
"But the pilot did a fantastic job to get us down in one piece and the staff were superb in keeping us calm."
The City team, who had lost 4-2 to Portsmouth, flew back to Manchester on a different plane.