EasyJet Pilot Forced to Abort Landing at Paris Orly Over Fireworks Concerns
An EasyJet pilot was compelled to execute a 'go around' maneuver at Paris Orly Airport following apprehensions regarding fireworks in close proximity to the landing area. This incident unfolded on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, as the aircraft approached from Venice, Italy.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
At approximately 5:40 PM, air traffic control observed smoke at ground level on runway 3, prompting the pilot to ascend for passenger safety. Reports from La Parisien indicated that mini-explosions were visible, with initial suspicions pointing to fireworks as the cause.
According to DailyStar, multiple individuals were reportedly seen near the intersection of Rue Lamartine and Rue du 8-Mai-1945 in Villeneuve-le-Roi, Val-de-Marne, adjacent to a Staf transport company warehouse. The French publication suggested that a group had ignited fireworks as part of a wedding celebration, leading to the disruption.
Clarifications and Official Statements
False reports emerged claiming that a projectile had struck the aircraft. However, an EasyJet spokesperson clarified to La Parisien that "at no point was the aircraft struck by any projectile."
In an official statement, EasyJet confirmed: "easyJet can confirm that the captain of flight EJU4874 from Venice to Paris Orly on 5 April elected to perform a routine 'go around' on arrival into Orly due to perceived fireworks in the vicinity of the runway. EasyJet's pilots are highly trained in order to perform 'go arounds' as a precaution and in line with our procedures and the flight landed normally."
The airline emphasized that the safety of passengers was never compromised, reiterating that the well-being of passengers and crew remains their highest priority. The flight ultimately landed without further incident, following standard safety protocols.
