EasyJet flight from Manchester forced to divert mid-air: 'out of our control'

A flight operated by easyJet from Manchester was forced to divert back to the airport on the evening of Monday, June 30.

The EZY2159 flight, which was bound for Izmir, took off from Manchester Airport at approximately 5 pm and flew east over Sheffield and Norfolk before suddenly changing course and returning to the airport.

The aircraft turned back over the North Sea and landed safely in Manchester at about 5:50 pm, roughly an hour after takeoff.

The airline subsequently confirmed that the diversion was caused by a 'passenger welfare issue', describing the disruption as 'out of our control' and an 'extraordinary circumstance'.

According to an update on easyJet's website, the flight was grounded overnight, with arrangements being made for an alternative service to operate on the morning of Tuesday, July 1, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Further information regarding the nature of the onboard incident has not been disclosed.

In an update at 9 pm, the airline stated: "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."

A request for comment has been made to easyJet.