Incident Overview
On April 5, 2000, a Fokker F28 MK 0100 (Fokker 100) with registration F-GNLI was operating Air Liberté flight LB 709 DT from Paris Orly to Bordeaux Mérignac. The aircraft was owned by Jet Trading and Leasing Company. During the takeoff roll, shortly after the crew announced eighty knots and just prior to rotation, the forward left passenger door opened spontaneously.
Operational Response
The flight crew continued the takeoff maneuver and immediately declared an emergency. Air traffic control instructed the crew to perform a circuit via the south side of the airport to return to runway 08. The aircraft landed safely at 10:02 UTC, with fire and medical services on standby. Notably, the entire takeoff and landing sequence was executed while the passenger door remained open.
Safety Outcomes
There were no fatalities among the five crew members or thirty-eight passengers. No injuries were reported for any individuals on board or third parties. The aircraft sustained damage to the passenger door, which required replacement, and minor airframe damage caused by impacts from parts torn from the door during landing.