An easyJet flight bound for Iceland was forced to make an unscheduled landing in Scotland over the weekend after severe weather conditions prevented it from reaching its destination.
Flight Forced to Reroute Mid-Air
EasyJet flight U22261, which departed from Manchester Airport at 5:45pm on Sunday, 28th December, was scheduled to land in Reykjavik at 6:40pm. However, the aircraft was compelled to divert to Edinburgh Airport, where it eventually touched down at approximately 10:20pm that evening.
The airline confirmed the disruption was caused by 'adverse weather conditions' and 'low visibility' at Keflavik International Airport in Iceland. Data from the flight tracking service FlightRadar24 illustrated the moment the plane was forced to abandon its approach and re-route towards the UK.
Airline Apologises to Passengers
EasyJet issued a formal apology to affected travellers, arranging an alternative flight for the following day. In a statement reported by EdinburghLive, the carrier emphasised that passenger and crew safety was its 'highest priority'.
The statement read: 'We're sorry that your flight has been delayed overnight. This is because adverse weather conditions and low visibility in Keflavik are preventing us from operating your flight today... The disruption to your flight is outside of our control and is considered to be an extraordinary circumstance.'
Second Incident Involving UK Flight
This diversion occurred on the same day another UK flight encountered difficulties. A Ryanair service from Birmingham to Tenerife was forced to return to its departure airport after declaring an emergency due to air turbulence.
The Boeing 737 MAX, operating as flight FR1121, issued a 7700 squawk code over Brittany, France, while cruising at 35,000 feet. It landed safely back at Birmingham Airport around one hour and 32 minutes after take-off.
Ryanair confirmed a small number of passengers required medical assistance upon landing. The aircraft was later cleared to continue its journey to Tenerife, departing at 9:05pm and landing without further incident.
Both incidents highlight the unpredictable challenges faced by airlines during winter operations, with weather and turbulence leading to significant passenger disruption.
