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A British Airways pilot has been praised following an emergency landing at Heathrow after "technical problems" during a transatlantic flight.

The BA295 flight to Chicago was diverted back to Heathrow hours after it took off, landing in London at about 5.15pm.

Passengers took to Twitter to praise the pilot and revealed the technical problems were as a result of a fault with landing equipment.

Passenger Martin Robinson told the Daily Star: “About three hours in we were told we would be returning to London due to a technical issue and it would take two hours to get back.

“About 20 minutes before landing we were told the landing gear would be lowered.

“We understand now there was a problem with landing gear and only three of the five wheel sets lowered.

“The pilot was brilliant, very cool and calm. We are currently sitting on runway waiting to be towed back. Emergency services were on stand by.

“I think the pilot nailed it. Everyone was calm. Landing was almost seamless. Better than other flights I've been on."

A Heathrow spokesman said a runway was closed for nearly an hour, which has caused disruption to some flights.

The hugest kisses and hugs to the @British_Airways pilot who just landed the plane my husband was on when the landing gear failed. #thankyou — Muriel Gray (@ArtyBagger) January 30, 2016

Just landed back in #Heathrow after #BA 295 to #Chicago diverted back after 2 hours 4 "technical reasons" on runway met by fire engines — bendepear (@bendepear) January 30, 2016

He said: “Due to a technical issue with an aircraft that needed resolving on the runway following landing, Heathrow operated with only one runway for a short time.

“We are sorry that this has caused some disruption to flights. All passengers should check with their airline before travelling to the airport.”

British Airways has been approached for comment.