Manchester, United Kingdom: An Aer Lingus long-haul flight from Bridgetown, Barbados, to Manchester Airport was forced to carry out an emergency landing early Monday morning after the crew reported a technical issue during the approach phase of the flight.
Flight EI030, which departed Barbados just before 7:30 p.m. GMT on Sunday for an overnight journey to Manchester, touched down safely on Manchester’s runway shortly before 8 a.m. local time.
According to statements from both the airline and Manchester Airport officials, the aircraft encountered a technical issue that affected the aircraft’s hydraulic systems as it neared the UK destination.
“Aer Lingus flight EI030 from Barbados to Manchester landed safely at Manchester Airport following a technical issue,” an Aer Lingus spokesperson said. “Due to the technical issue, the aircraft was met by emergency services as a precaution and passengers have safely disembarked.”
A Manchester Airport spokesperson confirmed that the issue did not compromise passenger safety, adding that the aircraft was met on the runway by fire and rescue services as a standard precautionary measure when an emergency is declared.
Passengers on board were instructed to leave the aircraft on the airfield shortly after landing. Buses transported travellers to the terminal building following disembarkation. There were no reports of injuries among the 261 passengers and crew. Officials emphasised that such procedures are precautionary and did not indicate an immediate danger to those on board.
The airline has reportedly been considering changes to its Manchester hub strategy, which includes routes to destinations such as Barbados, New York and Orlando.
The potential restructuring has drawn attention due to its impact on local operations and workforce, particularly among cabin crew based at Manchester.
