Bahrain, Jul 22 (Gulf Daily News): BAHRAIN's national carrier yesterday confirmed an emergency landing in Lebanon after the outer pane of a plane's window cracked in flight, but said passengers were never in danger.

Gulf Air flight 042 was on its way to Athens when it was forced to divert to Beirut Rafik Hariri International Airport on Tuesday night.

Ninety-five passengers were onboard the Airbus A319 when the crack appeared on the right of the cockpit window at 9.40pm.

An airline spokeswoman yesterday claimed the incident was not uncommon and said the decision to divert the plane was taken as a precaution.

"The cracking of the outer pane is a condition that can occur, but does not pose a major safety threat," she said.

"The decision to divert the aircraft was taken by the captain as a safety measure in full accordance with standard flight operating procedures."

She said passengers were offered refreshments, the opportunity to make international calls and booked onto alternative flights upon arrival in Beirut.

Those whose flights did not depart immediately were put up in hotels and given dinner vouchers ahead of their expected departure.

"Gulf Air is fully aware of how such unexpected issues can cause distress, but would like to reassure passengers that safety and security is its top priority," said the spokeswoman.

"Gulf Air pilots and crew are trained to international aviation standards and requirements and regularly undergo training to handle such situations."