MANCHESTER — A Jet2 holiday flight bound for the Canary Islands is forced to make an emergency diversion to Manchester Airport shortly after taking off from Leeds Bradford Airport.
Jet2 flight LS219, operated by a Boeing 737-800, departed Leeds Bradford on schedule for Lanzarote Island. However, just minutes into the flight, the crew transmitted a “Squawk 7700” code, signaling a general airborne emergency.
Flight tracking data showed the aircraft climbing briefly before halting its ascent and entering a sharp turn toward Manchester. The sudden diversion occurred a mere 29 minutes after takeoff.
Swift Divertion to Manchester
The aircraft involved, a Boeing 737-800 bearing the registration G-JZBF, will be met on the tarmac at Manchester Airport by emergency services, a standard protocol for aircraft landing under a declared emergency.
Passengers Safe After Quick Response
While Jet2 has not yet confirmed the exact nature of the emergency, early reports suggest a lighting strike may have prompted the flight crew to abort the trip to Lanzarote.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information regarding the cause of the emergency becomes available.
UPDATE 16:20 BST
The flight is circling at 9,000 feet.
UPDATE 16:29 BST
Now on approach to MAN.
UPDATE 16:52 BST
The 20 year old aircraft is now taxiing to the gate, escorted by ARFF.
UPDATE 16:39 BST
Touch down on runway 23L.
UPDATE 16:40 BST
The aircraft is met by fire trucks at the end of the runway.
