An EasyJet flight was forced to make a dramatic emergency landing after being struck by lightning moments after take-off. The jet had been travelling from London Gatwick to Milan when the terrifying incident occurred during stormy weather.
Incident Details
Flight U28305 was hit shortly after departing from runway 08R at Gatwick Airport on Thursday, May 14 at 2.22pm. The Airbus 319 was struck as it climbed through dark clouds. Despite the strike, pilots continued climbing to around 16,000 feet while conducting system checks. They then decided to return to Gatwick, where the jet landed safely.
EasyJet Statement
An EasyJet spokesperson said: "Flight EZY8305 from London Gatwick to Milan yesterday afternoon returned to London Gatwick shortly after take off following a lightning strike in line with procedures. The aircraft is equipped to safely withstand lightning and at no point was the safety of the flight compromised."
The spokesperson added: "The pilot performed a routine landing where we provided customers with refreshments in the terminal and arranged for a replacement crew and aircraft to continue the flight to Milan later that evening. The safety of our customers and crew is easyJet's highest priority."
Gatwick Airport Response
A spokesperson for Gatwick Airport confirmed: "We can confirm the EZY8305 A319 requested an emergency landing at London Gatwick after a reported lightning strike shortly after departure yesterday (May 14). It returned to the airport where it landed safely."
Bad weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rain, were reported in the area at the time. The lightning strike was captured on camera and widely shared on social media.
