An EasyJet flight from London Gatwick to Ibiza turned around moments after take-off this morning after transmitting a general emergency code. The aircraft, flight EZY52LD, departed at 5:35am on Wednesday, July 22, and has since returned and landed safely at Gatwick, according to Flight Radar 24.
Emergency transmission and return
The plane transmitted code 7700, indicating a general emergency, before returning to its origin airport. Eyewitnesses on social media reported that 'lots of fire trucks' were in attendance at the airport. Flight Radar 24 stated: “EasyJet Flight EZY52LD turns back toward London Gatwick Airport in UK after transmitting code 7700, indicating general emergency, shortly after takeoff.”
Tracking data shows the aircraft flew south towards mainland Europe, performed a U-turn over the Channel, and returned to Britain's second-busiest airport. The aeroplane model involved is an Airbus A320-214. The cause of the emergency transmission has not been revealed. The 7700 'squawk' code is used for 'a serious situation requiring immediate assistance,' according to the Wayman Flight School.
Flight details
The EZY52LD operates daily during the summer from Gatwick to Ibiza and had been operating on schedule and as normal for the previous week. EasyJet has been contacted for comment.
