EasyJet Flight Returns to Gatwick After Lightning Strike

The Airbus A319, operating as Flight U28305, left the runway at 2:22 p.m. and entered stormy conditions during its initial climb. The crew assessed the situation while continuing to ascend and reached approximately 16,000 feet before deciding to return.

The flight crew declared a priority status and requested permission to return to the departure airport. The aircraft touched down without incident. "The aircraft is equipped to safely withstand lightning and at no point was the safety of the flight compromised," a company spokesman said.

Once on the ground, passengers received refreshments in the terminal while arrangements were made for their onward travel. EasyJet provided a replacement aircraft and crew that departed for Milan later that evening. The airline stated that it follows all manufacturer guidelines for fleet operations and that customer and crew safety remains its top priority.

A Gatwick spokesman confirmed the aircraft requested an emergency landing after the reported lightning strike shortly after departure.