UPDATE: As of 9:19 a.m., operations at Cyril E. King Airport have resumed following the emergency landing of an aircraft originally bound for the British Virgin Islands.

ORIGINAL POST: The Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas remains temporarily closed following an emergency landing by a private aircraft that was originally en route to the British Virgin Islands from Martinique. The plane, carrying one pilot and two passengers, experienced a critical mechanical issue mid-flight, prompting the diversion to St. Thomas.

According to officials, as the aircraft neared the BVI last night, multiple warning lights illuminated, signaling a fire in the hydraulic system. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the pilot made the decision to abort the planned landing in the BVI and instead proceed to Cyril E. King Airport, where the plane landed safely.

Despite the safe landing, the aircraft remains disabled on the airport’s only runway, disrupting normal operations. The V.I. Port Authority has been working to remove the aircraft as quickly as possible. VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe has mobilized all available resources, including private sector partners, to expedite the reopening of the territory’s busiest airport ahead of the estimated time.

Damaged tires of the private jet following its landing at Cyril E. King Airport on Tuesday night.

As of the latest Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), the expected reopening time is set for 2:00 p.m. today. However, authorities continue working to clear the runway, and further updates will be provided should this timeline change.

Passengers and airline operators are advised to monitor official updates as efforts continue to restore airport operations safely and efficiently.