A US airforce Lockheed Galaxy military transport aircraft was diverted into Shannon Airport last evening when the crew feared being overcome by fumes in the cockpit.
The 400-tonne aircraft was on a direct flight from a US base in Ramstein, Germany, to a base in Massachusetts, when the alarm was sent out 25 minutes before it reached Shannon control. There was a crew of six on board.
Although it was not stated officially, it is understood the aircraft was involved in the Afghanistan conflict. The Galaxy with its 28 wheels is capable of operating on desert or on soft earth.