Overview
• Operator: EasyJet
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A320-200N
• Registration: G-UZHE
• Flight Number: U2-8069
• Route: London Gatwick (LGW), UK to Malaga (AGP), Spain
• Date: 23 January 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
Incident Summary
EasyJet flight U2-8069 encountered smoke in the cabin while cruising at FL310 approximately 50 nautical miles northwest of Madrid, Spain. The crew promptly declared an emergency and decided to divert to Madrid-Barajas Airport. The aircraft landed safely on runway 32L under low visibility conditions and taxied to a remote apron, escorted by emergency services.
Passengers were later transferred to a replacement aircraft, which continued to Malaga with a significant delay.
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise Phase:
• The aircraft was enroute at FL310 over Spain when the crew detected smoke in the cabin.
• An emergency was declared, and Madrid was selected as the diversion airport.
2. Descent and Diversion:
• The flight crew initiated a descent and coordinated with Madrid air traffic control for priority landing clearance.
• The aircraft was vectored for an approach to runway 32L in low visibility conditions.
3. Landing and Response:
• The aircraft landed safely on Madrid’s runway 32L and taxied to a remote apron.
• Emergency services followed the aircraft and conducted an inspection upon its arrival.
4. Passenger Transfer and Continuation of Flight:
• Passengers were accommodated on a replacement Airbus A320-200, registration G-EZTX, which departed to Malaga with a delay of approximately 7.5 hours.
5. Aircraft Status:
• The affected aircraft, G-UZHE, remained grounded in Madrid for 26 hours for inspection and maintenance before repositioning back to London Gatwick.
Investigation
The cause of the smoke in the cabin is under investigation. Key areas of focus will likely include the air conditioning and environmental control systems, potential electrical faults, and possible contamination of cabin air supply systems.
Aircraft Status
The occurrence aircraft, G-UZHE, underwent inspection and maintenance in Madrid before positioning back to its base in London Gatwick. No further details about the findings from the inspection have been released.
Analysis and Recommendations
Smoke incidents in the cabin are treated with the utmost seriousness due to the potential risks to passenger and crew safety. The crew’s rapid decision to divert aligns with best practices in managing in-flight smoke emergencies. Investigators should thoroughly examine the environmental control systems, air conditioning packs, and any associated electrical components to identify the source of the issue.
Operators are advised to review maintenance protocols for similar aircraft types to minimise the likelihood of such events. Additionally, regular training for flight and cabin crews on handling smoke events remains essential for ensuring safety.
Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available information as of 24 January 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
