An easyJet flight from Edinburgh came within seconds of crashing into Lake Geneva, an investigation has revealed. The Airbus A320 Neo, carrying 157 passengers, was approaching Geneva Airport on November 5 when it descended to just 750 feet above the lake while still 7.5 miles from the runway.
Air traffic controllers alerted the pilots that they were flying 1,500 feet lower than required, instructing them to 'check your altitude immediately'. The pilots only accelerated and regained altitude after the cockpit altitude warning system sounded, averting a collision with the water at the last second.
The Swiss Safety Investigation Service (SESE) classified the incident as 'serious', stating that the aircraft descended significantly below the glideslope during approach. If the plane had continued its downward trajectory, it would have crashed into the lake within 30 seconds.
An expert suggested that the geographical features of Lake Geneva may have contributed to the rapid descent, as the control tower instructed the aircraft to follow a short approach between Gland and Rolle, forcing a quick descent instead of passing over the Jura mountains.
The pilots were temporarily stood down but have since returned to flying. An easyJet spokesperson said: 'We are fully supporting the investigation in line with procedures. The safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew is always easyJet’s highest priority.'
