Norse 787-9 Rejects Takeoff at Gatwick, Causing Widespread Delays

A Norse Atlantic Airways Boeing 787-9 took off from London Gatwick's runway 26L on September 4, 2026, but was rejected at high speed due to a problem with its nose landing gear. The aircraft, registered G-CKOF, was scheduled to fly from London Gatwick to New York John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The crew detected the issue during the takeoff roll and halted the departure at around 120 knots. The aircraft came to a stop on the runway, blocking Gatwick's main departure and arrival route. Multiple airfield vehicles converged on the stationary aircraft as standard safety precautions were put in place.

The runway remained closed for roughly 50 minutes while emergency teams attended to the Norse aircraft and ensured the surface was clear and safe. During this period, no routine takeoffs or landings were possible, forcing inbound flights into holding patterns or diversions and keeping outbound aircraft parked at gates and holding points.

Once the 787-9 had been removed and inspections completed, movements gradually resumed. Flight tracking platforms showed departures restarting shortly after the closure period, but with mounting delays across the schedule as airlines worked through a growing backlog of services.