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Many travellers share their questions on the social website Quora and pilots and cabin crew often get back with their best stories.

One Quora user asked: “As an airline pilot, are there any experiences you have had that give you nightmares?”

A commercial pilot named Paul DeBusschere shared his story.

He explained: “A late-night takeoff out of São Paulo, Brazil.

“Just before takeoff on a fully loaded Boeing 767 a tire violently blew.

“On climb out at 1,000 feet I had my First Officer raise the flaps and only one side came up.

“On a Boeing this asymmetric trailing edge flap configuration caused the aircraft to start to turn towards the mountain on climb out.”

He continued: “Full rudder allowed us to climb out straight ahead. I instructed my First Officer to declare an emergency and to tell control we needed to dump fuel to get down to an acceptable landing weight.

“In the hour it took to dump 100,000lbs of fuel we calculated our approach speed with one wing’s flap at one and the other wing’s flap at five would be 193 knots or about 55 knots faster than normal.”

What do you think? Join the debate in the comments section below

On commercial planes, the flaps are placed on the outside edge of an aeroplane’s wing.

Their function is to help produce more lift when the aircraft is taking off and more importantly, they ensure a controllable and successful landing.

The pilot continued: “When we were ready to begin our approach we put the gear handle down only to have the main gear indication showing it was not down and locked.

“We then began our approach into São Paulo Airport around 1AM.

“The landing with only flaps one and five and the blown tire was very bumpy despite being one of the best landings of my 33-year airline career due to the blown tire.

“The aircraft came to a stop 300 feet from the end of the runway with red hot brakes.

“After landing it was discovered that the blown tire had not only hit the landing gear sensor but blown off a flight spoiler.

“It also placed a five by six foot hole all the way through the wing. When I went to the seats over the wing to look at the hole I could see the landing gear through the hole.

Where should you go on your next holiday?

Now that the world has opened up again it’s time to pack those suitcases and head off on a well-deserved adventure. Where should you be jetting off to? Take our quiz and find out.

Greece

With endless culture, gorgeous beaches and weather to die for, Greece is a great choice both for romantic getaways and family trips. Wander the historical streets of Athens and Thessaloniki or head to an island to soak up the sun – the choice is yours.

Japan

It may be far away but it’s definitely worth the trip. Japan has sprawling metropolises, stunning scenery, and a rich history and culture to boot. Check out the cities of Kyoto and Tokyo and make sure to get your fill of their world-famous cuisine while you’re in town

The USA

Hop across the pond and experience an array of cultures, climates, cuisines and more. You can leave the phrasebook at home and get truly immersed in everything that this sprawling nation has to offer, from the Grand Canyon to the Statue of Liberty

France

With some of the best food around and boasting the world’s most romantic city, France is a great choice if you’re in a hurry. Be in its glorious capital in just hours, grab a pain au chocolat and practice your language skills while wandering along the banks of the Seine

Italy

La dolce vita is calling! With its stunning views, fascinating history and world-famous Neapolitan pizza, Italy is a great choice, whether you’re after an adventure or want to dive into a big bowl of spaghetti

Morocco

A little off the beaten track, Morocco boasts stunning architecture, winding street markets to get lost in, and beautiful landscapes. Soak up the sun in Marrakech or head to Chefchaouen for one of the most unique experiences a holiday-maker can have

The Caribbean

Sun, sea and sand – what’s not to love? Head to the Caribbean if you really want to unwind. With plenty of picturesque locations to choose from, from the streets of Havana to the beaches of Grenada, you’re sure to find something that fits your holiday dreams.

Iceland

When most people think ‘holiday’, sunshine and relaxation comes to mind – but a different kind of trip can be just as rewarding. Splash around in the Blue Lagoon and try your luck at catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. This is definitely one for the bucket list.

India

India is well worth a visit if you have some time to spare. With an array of different cultures coexisting in this vast and vibrant nation, as well as gorgeous food to be enjoyed at every turn, you’ll find yourself immersed in the experience. Take a trip to the Taj Mahal for that jaw drop moment

Swiss Alps

If snow sports are your thing, then this mountainous region is perfect for you. Venture down the powdered slopes and warm your hands at the après-ski afterward. Perfect for a group of friends, a romantic trip, or even some time with the kids – if they can stand the cold!

What kind of holiday do you like best?

What’s your budget?

How long do you have for your trip?

Who’s going on the trip?

How are your languages skills?

What’s your ideal climate?

Which is top of your bucket list?

“My legs then turned to rubber,” he admitted.

The pilot said: “I realised how close myself and 260 passengers had come to a disaster.

“This incident caused me to wake up and have nightmares for weeks after.

“The funny thing was that no official at my airline ever called me to discuss this incident.”

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