An easyJet aircraft scheduled to leave Manchester Airport was met by fire engines and passengers were evacuated after the captain reported detecting fumes in the cockpit.
Incident Details
Flight EZY9143 was due to depart Manchester for Dalaman, Turkey, at 5:30pm on Thursday, August 20. While being pushed back in preparation for departure, the captain reported detecting fumes in the cockpit, according to the Manchester Evening News.
Emergency services, including airport fire crews, responded following standard procedure, though it is understood there was no fire, the Manchester Evening News reports.
Airline Response
EasyJet confirmed a 'technical issue' with the Airbus A321 prevented it from operating as scheduled, resulting in the flight being cancelled. The airline described the emergency service attendance as 'a precaution only.'
Passengers were removed from the aircraft and provided with hotel accommodation for the evening. A replacement aircraft is scheduled for Friday, August 21.
Impact and Statements
The emergency response delayed a handful of other departures scheduled around the same period but did not cause major disruption. A fire alarm that activated in the terminal building is believed to have been unconnected and a false alarm.
An easyJet spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News: "Flight EZY9143 from Manchester to Dalaman was unable to operate on 20 August due to a technical issue with the aircraft. The aircraft was met by emergency services as a precaution only, and customers disembarked normally. Unfortunately, the technical issue meant the flight could not operate as planned. Customers have been provided with hotel accommodation and meals where required and are expected to continue their journey to Dalaman on Friday 21 August on a replacement aircraft. We are sorry for any inconvenience this will have caused and did all we could to minimise the impact of the disruption. The safety of our customers and crew is easyJet's highest priority, and easyJet operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with all manufacturers' guidelines."
