SDF aircraft stuck on runway at Japan's Naha airport, malfunction suspected

TOKYO, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- A Self-Defense Forces (SDF) aircraft, believed to be an F-15 fighter jet, was suspected to have suffered a malfunction and stopped on a runway at Naha Airport in Japan's southern island prefecture of Okinawa on Tuesday, public broadcaster NHK reported.

Live footage aired by NHK showed the aircraft stationary with its left wing in contact with the runway.

Multiple Air Self-Defense Force fire trucks were dispatched, while personnel believed to be SDF members were seen inspecting the aircraft.

The malfunction may have occurred near the wheels, NHK reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The Naha Airport office said Runway 2, where the aircraft stopped, has been closed, while Runway 1, the airport's other runway, remains in use for passenger flights.