Nantucket, Massachusetts – A Cape Air plane that took off from Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, returned safely after part of the main cabin door opened shortly after takeoff, a disturbing mid-air incident that prompted the crew to turn back.
A Cape Air spokesperson told the media that the plane remained stable and continued to operate normally, and that no injuries were reported.
A passenger video shared on Instagram appears to show the top of the cabin door partially open during the flight, with the open sky and ocean visible through the gap. Footage filmed from inside the small plane shows the door frame and window area partially open as the plane flies at altitude, while passengers remain seated nearby.
The flight departed Nantucket Memorial Airport on Monday when the top of the main cabin door opened, the airline said. The crew returned the plane to the airport, where it landed without any further incident. The plane was taken out of service for evaluation, and the airline said it follows established safety procedures and will take any necessary action based on its findings.
Located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) off the southern coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket Island is a popular summer destination that is accessible primarily by air and ferry.