A passenger on board a light plane forced to make an emergency belly landing at Darwin Airport has praised the skill of the pilot.

The twin-engine plane was preparing to land in north-eastern Arnhem Land this morning when it experienced difficulties with its landing gear.

The plane, carrying three people, was then redirected to Darwin to make an emergency landing.

Emergency crews were on standby when the plane made a successful landing.

Passenger Geoff Harper said at no time during the landing did he feel unsafe.

"It was well-controlled and well-managed ... the pilot kept us informed the whole time," he said.

"I've flown with him before and I trust him, and I know he knows what he's talking about."

Mr Harper's wife, Hannah, said she was praying for a safe landing.

"Just praying for safety for him and wisdom for the pilot," she said.

"I had also contacted close friends and family members to ask them for their prayers.

"Soon after he gave me a call and he sounded very calm, he also said the pilot has been fantastic."