A TUI flight from Birmingham to Menorca declared an emergency mid-air over France on Saturday morning, resulting in a diversion to London Gatwick Airport.
Flight BY7614, operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8, had reached a cruising altitude of 37,000 feet when the crew activated the emergency code 7700, which granted them priority handling from air traffic control.
After signalling the emergency, the aircraft turned around, and air traffic control provided immediate priority to the flight. The crew reportedly informed controllers of a potential tyre issue, although the airline has not yet confirmed the exact cause of the emergency.
The plane landed safely at Gatwick shortly after 8am and was directed to a remote stand. There were no injuries reported among passengers or crew during the incident.
Following the flight’s arrival, Gatwick Airport temporarily suspended certain operations. Normal airport activity resumed once the aircraft was secured away from the main terminals.
While reports have suggested that a burst tyre may have prompted the emergency declaration, TUI has not officially disclosed the reason for the diversion. An investigation into the incident is expected to take place.
Originally published by UKNIP.
