MANCHESTER – A TUI Airways flight bound for the Balearic Islands has declared an emergency shortly after departing from Manchester Airport this morning, Friday, March 13.
Incident Over Greater Manchester
Flight BY2540, a Boeing 737-800 (registration G-TAWB), took off from runway 23L at 07:15 GMT. The aircraft was scheduled for a standard two-hour flight to Palma De Mallorca.
However, shortly after departure, the crew ceased their ascent at 8,000 feet—well below the typical cruising altitude for this route. The aircraft subsequently “squawked” 7700, the international signal for a general emergency, notifying Air Traffic Control (ATC) of an urgent situation on board.
While the specific nature of the technical issue has not been confirmed, a sudden stop in altitude at 8,000 feet can sometimes indicate issues such as cabin pressurization problems, engine performance concerns, or bird strikes.
Current Status
UPDATE #1
The aircraft is currently in a holding pattern near the airport. Pilots frequently enter these orbits to:
- Complete emergency checklists and communicate with engineering teams on the ground.
- Burn off or jettison fuel to reach a safe maximum landing weight.
- Allow emergency services at Manchester Airport to get into position.
UPDATE #2
Manchester Airport remains operational, though the return of BY2540 may cause minor delays to other scheduled departures as emergency crews prepare for the aircraft’s arrival.
UPDATE #3
The aircraft is now holding since one hour after departure from MAN airport to burn fuel.
UPDATE #4
Flight BY2540 is now returning to Manchester, ARFF on attempt.
UPDATE #5
Flight #BY2540 performed a high speed landing with stuck flaps.
UPDATE #6
Taxied to remote stand of the airport.
