An easyJet flight bound for Spain was forced to make an emergency U-turn over the English Channel on Saturday afternoon following a technical malfunction shortly after takeoff.
LONDON — EasyJet flight U28013, which departed London Gatwick Airport (LGW) at 16:48 GMT bound for Valencia, Spain, declared an airborne emergency roughly 20 minutes into the flight.
According to flight tracking data, the aircraft (an Airbus A319 with registration G-EZIY) was climbing toward its cruising altitude when the crew halted the ascent at 10,000 feet. The pilots issued a “Squawk 7700” code, the international signal for an immediate inflight emergency, while flying over the English Channel.
Hydraulic Failure Suspected
Initial reports indicate the emergency declaration was prompted by a hydraulic failure. Operating an aircraft with compromised hydraulic systems can impact primary flight controls, braking, and landing gear deployment, requiring the flight crew to return to the nearest suitable airport as a precautionary measure.
Safe Return to Gatwick
After entering a brief holding pattern to prepare for an overweight landing, the crew turned the aircraft back toward the UK coast.
Emergency services at London Gatwick are placed on standby ahead of the aircraft’s return. The Airbus A319 is expected to land back at Gatwick in few minutes.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
UPDATE 17:37 GMT
The airline is confirming a return due to a technical issue that needs to be inspected by engineers.
UPDATE 17:41 GMT
On final approach back to LGW.
UPDATE 17:46 GMT
Touch down on runway 26L.
UPDATE 17:49 GMT
The aircraft is being inspected on the taxiway.
UPDATE 17:53 GMT
The aircraft is now taxiing to the terminal, escorted by firetrucks.
UPDATE 17:57 GMT
Now parked on remote stand of the airport.
