On November 18, 2024, a Jet2 Boeing 737-800, en route from Fuerteventura to Glasgow, was forced to divert to Santiago, Spain, after the flight crew reported smoke in the cabin. The incident occurred during the flight’s cruise at an altitude of approximately 30,000 feet, prompting the crew to take immediate action to ensure the safety of the 180 passengers and crew onboard.
According to sources, the crew of Flight LS1322 made a precautionary decision to divert to Santiago Airport, which is located in the northwest region of Spain. The aircraft, which had taken off from Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, was about halfway through its journey to Glasgow when the crew noticed the smoke. The captain, following standard emergency procedures, declared an emergency and initiated the diversion to the nearest suitable airport.
Upon landing safely at Santiago Airport, emergency services were on standby to inspect the aircraft. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the passengers were safely disembarked. Jet2, the British low-cost airline operating the flight, immediately began an investigation into the cause of the smoke, which could have stemmed from a mechanical issue, electrical fault, or a possible fire in the cabin or cargo hold.
The airline provided passengers with alternative arrangements to continue their journey to Glasgow. A replacement aircraft was dispatched to Santiago to pick up the stranded passengers, who were then able to resume their travel, albeit with a significant delay. Jet2 ensured that affected passengers were provided with meals and refreshments while they waited for their new flight to depart.
This incident highlights the importance of quick decision-making and adherence to safety protocols by the flight crew. Diversions due to cabin smoke are relatively rare but are taken very seriously by airlines, as the safety of passengers is always the top priority. While the cause of the smoke is still under investigation, the swift response by Jet2’s crew and ground teams ensured a safe resolution to what could have been a more serious situation.
Jet2 has assured the public that it will cooperate fully with aviation safety authorities in Spain and the UK to determine the cause of the smoke and implement any necessary safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The airline has also expressed its gratitude to the passengers for their cooperation and understanding during the emergency situation.
As for the Boeing 737-800 involved in the incident, it is expected to undergo a thorough inspection and maintenance checks before returning to service. This incident serves as a reminder of the rigorous safety procedures that are in place within the aviation industry, which are designed to safeguard passengers during unexpected in-flight emergencies.
