Midair scare as cracked window forces emergency diversion back to airport

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Brief Summary

British Airways Flight 2660 from London Gatwick to Faro, Portugal, was forced to turn back just under an hour into its journey on October 13 after a cracked window was discovered. The flight crew squawked the 7700 emergency code, which alerted air traffic control to the situation, but the aircraft landed safely back at Gatwick. The airline described the issue as a 'minor technical issue,' but aviation experts noted that cracks in aircraft windows can vary in severity, depending on their location and impact on cabin pressure. The diversion was a precautionary measure, allowing pilots to land before the damage could escalate.

Why This Matters

For the average traveler, this story is a reminder that even minor technical issues can cause significant delays and anxiety. It underscores the importance of passenger vigilance in reporting any visible damage, as pilots rely on this information to make safety decisions. The incident also highlights the robustness of aviation safety protocols, where a precautionary landing is preferable to risking a more serious mid-air emergency. The takeaway is clear: if you see a crack, speak up—it could save the flight and your vacation.

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