EasyJet flight to Turkey diverted back to UK airport after 'passenger issue'

An easyJet flight to Turkey had to be diverted back to the airport after a ‘passenger issue’ on board.

The plane took off from Manchester Airport bound for Izmir in Turkey shortly before 5pm on Monday.

But it only got as far as Norfolk before having to suddenly double back.

Images of the service’s FlightRadar map shows the aircraft making a huge U-turn over the North Sea and landing back in Manchester around an hour after take-off.

The airline confirmed flight EZY2159 had been diverted due to a ‘passenger welfare issue’.

It apologised for the disturbance, which it called ‘an extraordinary circumstance’ that was ‘out of our control’.

Further details about the nature of the incident have not been confirmed.

An update on Tuesday night read: ‘We’re sorry that your flight has been delayed overnight. This is due to a passenger welfare issue.

‘We are working hard to arrange your new flight for tomorrow. Once again, we’re very sorry for the disruption to your travel plans.’

An easyJet spokesperson told Metro: ‘Flight EZY2159 from Manchester to Izmir on Monday  was required to return to Manchester due to a customer requiring urgent medical assistance. 

‘The aircraft landed routinely in line with procedures and was met by medical services on arrival.

‘The flight then continued to Izmir on Tuesday morning. 

‘The safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew is always easyJet’s highest priority.’

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