An easyJet flight from London Gatwick to Ibiza was forced to return to the airport shortly after takeoff on Wednesday morning after transmitting a general emergency code. The aircraft, flight EZY52LD, departed at 5:35am but turned back over the English Channel, landing safely back at Gatwick.
Emergency code transmitted
According to Flight Radar 24, the plane transmitted code 7700, indicating a general emergency, shortly after takeoff. The code is used for serious situations requiring immediate assistance, as per Wayman Flight School. The cause of the emergency has not yet been revealed.
Flight path and response
Data from tracking software shows the Airbus A320-214 flew south towards mainland Europe before performing a U-turn over the Channel and returning to Britain's second-busiest airport. Eyewitnesses on social media reported seeing 'lots of fire trucks' at the airport. The aircraft landed safely, and no injuries have been reported.
Regular service
The EZY52LD route operates daily during the summer from Gatwick to Ibiza and had been running on schedule for the past week. easyJet has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.
