A FLIGHT carrying Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex on their controversial trip to Gibraltar has been forced to make an emergency landing after it suffered technical issues.
The Royal couple were apparently flying from the UK to Gibraltar when the plane had to fly back to the capital.
The Earl and Countess were scheduled to arrive there today to walk down Main Street from the Convent to City Hall at 4pm.
This has now been delayed after problems with the flight.
A statement from the Office of The Governor of Gibraltar reads: “The Earl and Countess of Wessex’s arrival in Gibraltar has been slightly delayed, after their flight was diverted safely back to the UK due to a technical issue.
“Alternative arrangements are being made for Their Royal Highnesses’ arrival in Gibraltar later today and the programme will be adjusted accordingly.”
The Spanish Government has protested against the Wessex’s visit to Gibraltar.
Madrid still claims the territory as part of Spain and its future border arrangements are currently the subject of talks between Britain and the European Union.
Spanish diplomatic sources said the country’s Foreign Ministry had “expressed its unease” at the visit.
Spain believes “is not appropriate” against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations for Gibraltar’s post-Brexit relations with the Rock.
A BA spokesperson said: “Our pilots decided to return to Heathrow as a precaution due to a minor technical issue, and the aircraft landed normally.
”The issue has now been fixed and the aircraft is due to depart again shortly.
”We’d like to thank customers for their patience and understanding.”
It comes after the Queen last week was caught in a mid-air drama when lightning forced her jet to abort its landing.
The 13-seater eventually touched down in London after leaving Aberdeen.
A 4×4 then whisked her to Windsor Castle to prepare for the Platinum Jubilee.
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An electrical storm, rain and hail meant Her Majesty’s jet had to return to the skies seconds before it was due to touch down.
Her pilot made a second and successful attempt when the weather cleared and she was whisked by 4×4 to Windsor Castle with her corgi on the back seat.
