Passengers on an easyJet flight experienced a dramatic diversion yesterday after the crew declared a mid-air emergency. Flight U251, operated by an Airbus A319, was traveling from the Isle of Man to Liverpool John Lennon Airport when the incident unfolded.
Aborted Landing Triggers Emergency
Tracking data revealed that the aircraft had departed the Isle of Man approximately one hour before the disruption. As the plane approached Liverpool for landing, the crew was forced to execute a go-around—an aborted landing procedure—because another aircraft was occupying the runway. This unexpected maneuver led to a holding pattern at 6,000 feet near Liverpool.
Emergency Declaration and Diversion
Shortly after the go-around, the crew transmitted a Squawk 7700 code, the international signal for a general airborne emergency. Air traffic controllers immediately gave the flight priority, rerouting it from Liverpool to Manchester Airport. Manchester was chosen for its longer runways and superior emergency response capabilities. Airport fire services and emergency teams were placed on standby as the twin-engine plane approached.
The flight safely touched down in Manchester by 4:05 pm yesterday. easyJet has been contacted for comment regarding the incident.
