had to divert to Bermuda with engine trouble.

The Boeing 757 was flying from New York to St. Martin in the Caribbean when it developed engine trouble.

It was believed to be flying into the Civil Air Terminal on only half power.

Four fire appliances from Hamilton Fire Station joined US Naval Air Station personnel on standby at the Airport, joined by a number of Police officers.

The plane landed around 12.45 p.m. yesterday. A Fire Brigade spokesman said: "By the time we arrived the plane had landed safely.'' A Civil Aviation spokesman said: "You have to make these precautions although the majority of these incidents end safely.

"It was having engine problems and as a precautionary measure it landed in Bermuda. It will now be kept here for repairs. The passengers will wait until another aircraft is flown in to pick them up.'' The relief flight was expected to arrive before 7.15 p.m. last night to take the passengers to St. Martin.