A Wizz Air flight returning to the UK from Egypt's high-profile peace summit became the centre of a mid-air emergency after terrified passengers reported hearing what sounded like an explosion in the aircraft's cargo hold.
The Airbus A321 was forced into a dramatic emergency descent, plunging an astonishing 21,000 feet in just eight minutes as pilots fought to regain control of the aircraft. The heart-stopping incident occurred while the plane was cruising at normal altitude, sending passengers into panic as oxygen masks deployed throughout the cabin.
Rapid Descent Over Mediterranean
Flight data reveals the aircraft made its rapid descent over the Mediterranean Sea before diverting to Ercan Airport in Northern Cyprus. The emergency landing was executed successfully, though passengers described scenes of chaos and confusion as the situation unfolded.
"We heard what sounded like an explosion from below us," one shaken passenger recounted. "The plane suddenly started dropping rapidly. People were screaming, and the oxygen masks came down. It was absolutely terrifying - we genuinely thought this might be it."
Investigation Underway
Aviation authorities have launched an immediate investigation into the incident, with early focus on the aircraft's cargo compartment and potential pressurisation issues. Wizz Air has confirmed the emergency landing but has yet to provide detailed explanation for the sudden descent.
The aircraft had been operating a scheduled service from Sharm El Sheikh to Budapest when the emergency unfolded. Many passengers were returning from diplomatic meetings surrounding the Egypt peace summit, adding an additional layer of international attention to the incident.
All passengers were safely evacuated after the emergency landing, though several required medical assessment for minor injuries related to the rapid decompression and descent. The airline has arranged alternative travel arrangements for affected passengers while the investigation continues.
