Queen Mathilde of Belgium experienced a tense moment during her royal visit to Costa Rica when her plane was forced to make an emergency landing due to a dangerous malfunction.
The 52-year-old royal was en route for a three-day solo trip with UNICEF Belgium and UNICEF Costa Rica when the aircraft’s windshield suddenly developed a crack mid-flight. As a precautionary measure, the plane was given priority landing at San Jose Juan Santamaria International Airport, touching down safely about 15 minutes ahead of schedule.
Despite the alarming situation, those on board remained calm, and the Queen continued with her planned engagements without disruption. A royal commentator later confirmed the incident, sharing images and assuring the public that Mathilde was unharmed and proceeding with her official duties as scheduled.