A Virgin Atlantic flight bound for Orlando, Florida, from London Heathrow was forced to turn back after flying for hours due to a minor technical issue. The Airbus A350 jet, operating as flight VS135, departed Heathrow at approximately 12:47 pm on Monday, July 13, heading west towards Ireland and the Atlantic Ocean.
Plane circles off Irish coast before returning
The aircraft was cruising at 36,000 feet when it suddenly made a sharp turn back towards the Irish coast. It then performed six circles off the coast of Dingle before heading north for one additional loop and then returning to the UK. Passengers disembarked shortly before 6 pm when the plane touched down at Heathrow.
Virgin Atlantic confirms minor technical issue
A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson told Metro: “Flight VS135 from London Heathrow to Orlando on Monday July 13 returned to London Heathrow due to a minor technical issue and was subsequently cancelled. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to our customers. The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our top priority. Our teams will be in contact with all affected customers and are working hard to rebook them onto alternative services as quickly as possible.”
Aviation safety protocols explained
Aviation safety protocols dictate that pilots will not commence a long oceanic crossing if there is even a minor technical or system glitch, according to experts. This precautionary measure ensures that any potential issues are addressed before the aircraft is over the open ocean, where emergency landing options are limited.
