An easyJet flight from Hurghada, Egypt to Manchester was forced to make an emergency landing in Athens, Greece on Saturday evening after one pilot experienced a medical issue mid-flight.
The inflight emergency prompting a diversion to Athens occurred during the scheduled easyJet U22252 flight bound for Manchester Airport (MAN) on 8 February 2025.
Inflight Emergency and Diversion to Athens
easyJet flight U22252 was operated by an Airbus A320-200 aircraft. It had departed from Hurghada International Airport (HRG) and had set course normally for the United Kingdom.
However, approximately two hours into the flight, the captain became unwell, requiring immediate medical attention. According to the Manchester Evening News, cabin crew rushed to attend a man who had collapsed. Passengers had thought it was a fellow passenger who had fallen ill. An announcement from cabin crew later advised that it was the captain who had fallen ill and required medical attention.
The first officer took control of the aircraft and a diversion to Athens International Airport (ATH) was carried out.
Upon the flight’s arrival in Athens, the Captain was attended to by waiting paramedics. The specific nature of the medical emergency has not been publicly disclosed, and the pilot’s present condition has not been confirmed.
easyJet confirmed the inflight incident in a covering statement. “easyJet can confirm flight EZY2252 from Hurghada to Manchester yesterday evening was diverted to Athens due to the Captain requiring medical assistance.”
“The First Officer performed landing, and the aircraft was met by paramedics on arrival in Athens.”
The airline provided passengers with overnight accommodation in Athens. Meals were provided while they waited for the onwards flight to Manchester.
The Importance of Two Pilot Operations
The recent incident resulting in the easyJet emergency landing highlights the critical role of having two pilots in the cockpit. However, the concept of single-pilot operations (SPO) for commercial flights, particularly in certain sectors, has been a topic of discussion and research within the aviation industry for years.
Proponents argue that advancements in automation and technology could potentially allow a single pilot to safely manage a flight, especially on shorter, less complex routes. They point to potential cost savings for airlines and a possible solution to pilot shortages.
The idea is not without its controversies. Critics raise significant safety concerns, citing the increased workload and stress on a single pilot. This is particularly so during emergencies or unexpected situations like the medical emergency experienced by easyJet flight.
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