An Aer Lingus passenger jet was forced to execute an emergency landing at Manchester Airport on the morning of Sunday, 29 December 2025, following the discovery of a technical fault.
Flight diverted after technical alert
Aer Lingus flight EI030, operating from Bridgetown in Barbados to Manchester, landed safely but under emergency protocols. The Airbus A330-302 aircraft was met on the tarmac by airport fire and rescue services as a precautionary measure.
The decision for the unscheduled landing was prompted by a reported issue with the plane's hydraulic system. Social media posts first indicated the aircraft was "sitting on the runway" after its emergency arrival. Flight tracking data from platforms including Flightradar24 showed the aircraft, also listed as service EUK930, stationary on the airfield.
Passenger disembarkation on the runway
After the safe touchdown, passengers were disembarked directly onto the airfield as a standard safety procedure. Coaches were dispatched from the terminal building to transport them to the arrivals hall.
Photographs shared online depicted the aircraft surrounded by emergency vehicles on the south runway. The plane's undercarriage doors were visibly open, which aviation sources suggested could be linked to the hydraulic problem that necessitated the landing.
Airline and airport confirm safe outcome
An official spokesperson for Aer Lingus confirmed the incident, stating: "Aer Lingus flight EI030 from Barbados to Manchester landed safely in Manchester Airport this morning following a technical issue. Due to the technical issue, the aircraft was met by emergency services as a precaution and passengers have safely disembarked."
A representative for Manchester Airport also addressed the situation, confirming a "technical issue affecting the hydraulics" had impacted the Aer Lingus service. They emphasised that "there was never any concern for safety" and that the crew had followed correct procedures to land the plane and disembark passengers on the airfield.
The incident highlights the robust safety protocols in place for commercial aviation, ensuring passenger welfare is prioritised when technical irregularities occur. All travellers from the flight are reported to be safe and are being assisted by airline staff.
