Johannesburg - An Airlink plane on Thursday night had to make an emergency landing at OR Tambo International Airport after problems with it's nose-wheel.

"The aircraft, an Avro RJ85, with 73 passengers and 4 crew on board, landed safely with its nose-wheel retracted," the airline said in a statement.

None of the passengers or crew was hurt in the emergency landing.

The flight departed OR Tambo International Airport at 19:10 this evening and was expected to land at Pietermaritzburg at 19:40.

"The aircraft experienced problems with its nose-wheel shortly after take-off. In accordance with procedure, the crew turned back to OR Tambo International and burned off fuel before landing," the statement read.

“The well-being of our passengers and crew are our foremost consideration.

"We have mobilised counsellors to provide support to the passengers and crew and we are arranging accommodation for them.

"We will also provide alternative travel arrangements for the passengers,” explained Rodger Roster, Airlink CEO and Managing Director.

Airlink has alerted the Civil Aviation Authority and will provide any support and assistance that the investigators require, he added.

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