Passengers on an Air Portugal flight from London Gatwick experienced a harrowing incident when their aircraft declared an emergency just minutes after takeoff, following reports of a fire in the galley. The dramatic event unfolded on Sunday, February 8, prompting a swift and controlled response from the flight crew.
Emergency Declared Shortly After Departure
The Air Portugal Flight TP1329, an Airbus A320 bound for Porto, departed Gatwick on schedule but quickly encountered trouble. At approximately 9.41am, the aircraft levelled off at around 4,300 feet, with the pilot issuing a 7700 squawk—a universal emergency code used to alert Air Traffic Control to a serious situation. This code can indicate various issues, including medical emergencies, engine problems, or other critical incidents.
Dramatic Maneuver and Safe Return
In response to the emergency, the 26-year-old jet performed a tight loop south of the airport, over London, before lining up for an immediate return approach. According to reports from Airlive.net, the pilots requested an urgent return to Gatwick due to a fire in one of the galleys. The aircraft touched down safely and was met by emergency crews on the ground.
Instead of returning to the South Terminal, the plane was directed to a remote stand for a thorough inspection by engineers. This precautionary measure ensured that any potential hazards were addressed before further operations.
Flight Resumes After Delay
Following the inspection, the flight eventually departed Gatwick at 12.20pm, arriving in Porto at 2.22pm. This was several hours later than the scheduled arrival time of 11.30am. It remains unclear whether passengers continued their journey on the same aircraft or were transferred to a replacement plane.
This incident highlights the importance of rigorous safety protocols in aviation, with the crew's quick actions ensuring a safe outcome for all on board. Emergency procedures, such as the 7700 squawk, play a crucial role in managing in-flight crises and coordinating with ground control.
