An American Airlines transatlantic flight bound for the United States has declared an in-flight emergency over the North Sea and is currently descending over the United Kingdom.
LONDON — American Airlines flight AA93, which departed Zurich Airport (ZRH) at 11:54 AM CEST today, was en route to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) when the crew transmitted a “Squawk 7700” emergency code.
Flight Profile and Incident Timeline
The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bearing the registration N882BL, took off normally from Zurich’s Runway 16. It completed a standard climb to its cruising altitude of 36,000 feet, tracking northwest across German airspace.
However, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes into the scheduled 8-hour flight, while transiting the airspace between Belgium and the eastern coast of the UK, the crew urgently alerted air traffic control to an unspecified onboard emergency.
- Flight: American Airlines AA93
- Route: Zurich (ZRH) to Philadelphia (PHL)
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (Reg: N882BL)
- Status: Transmitting Emergency Code 7700 / Initiating Descent
Current Status
Flight tracking data shows the Dreamliner has abandoned its transatlantic crossing and initiated a rapid descent over the UK. Air traffic controllers are actively prioritizing the aircraft as pilots coordinate a diversion to London Heathrow (LHR).
The nature of the emergency (whether mechanical, electrical, or medical) remains unconfirmed at this time. American Airlines has been contacted for comment.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
UPDATE 12:25 BST
The airline is confirming AIRLIVE that the flight is diverting to London Heathrow.
UPDATE 12:27 BST
Landing estimated at 12:52 PM.
UPDATE 12:30 BST
Departure from LHR is estimated at 1:15 PM by the airline, which could suggest a stop due to a medical emergency on board.
UPDATE 12:35 BST
On approach to runway 09L.
UPDATE 12:38 BST
Touch down.
UPDATE 12:44 BST
On stand at terminal 3.
UPDATE 13:55 BST
Departing Heathrow Airport to PHL.
