EasyJet pilot Captain Paul Elsworth has been suspended following a near-miss incident during a flight from Manchester to Hurghada, Egypt. The Airbus A320, carrying 190 passengers, descended to 3,100 feet—dangerously close to a mountain—triggering the aircraft’s Ground Proximity Warning System. Captain Elsworth responded swiftly, leveling the aircraft and preventing disaster. Although passengers were unaware, the airline launched an investigation, and Elsworth was removed from duty. The incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to flight safety protocols, with EasyJet reaffirming its commitment to maintaining high industry standards while the inquiry continues.
Incident Overview
Captain Paul Elsworth, a seasoned pilot with EasyJet, has been suspended following a serious in-flight incident. On February
2, 2025, while operating Flight EZY2251 from Manchester to Hurghada, Egypt, the aircraft came perilously close to a mountain during its
descent. The Airbus A320, carrying approximately 190 passengers and crew, descended to an altitude of 3,100 feet, bringing it within 770
feet of a 2,329-foot peak.
This was significantly below the standard minimum altitude of 6,000 feet for that area.
Activation of Safety Systems
The aircraft’s Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) was activated, issuing urgent alerts such as “Pull up, terrain,
terrain, pull up.” Responding promptly, Captain Elsworth executed a maneuver to level the aircraft, successfully averting a
potential disaster.
Despite the severity of the situation, passengers remained unaware of the close call, as the flight
proceeded to land safely at Hurghada Airport.
Immediate Actions and Investigation
Following the incident, Captain Elsworth reported the occurrence to EasyJet officials the next day. In response, the airline suspended him from duty pending a comprehensive investigation. Another flight crew was assigned to operate the come-back flight to Manchester, while Captain Elsworth was flown back as a passenger. EasyJet emphasized its commitment to safety, stating that all pilots are trained to the highest industry standards and are subject to rigorous testing and monitoring.
Background of Captain Paul Elsworth
Captain Elsworth, 61, has had a distinguished career in aviation. In 2016, he gained media attention when his son, Luke Elsworth, became one of the UK’s youngest airline pilots at the age of 19, also joining EasyJet. Luke’s rapid progression in the field was a testament to the Elsworth family’s dedication to aviation.
Safety Protocols and Industry Standards
This incident underscores the critical importance of adherence to established flight safety protocols. The GPWS is designed to alert pilots of potential terrain collisions, providing main seconds to take corrective action. Regular training and strict compliance with safety procedures are essential to prevent such near-miss situations.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, aiming to determine the factors that led to the aircraft’s deviation
from the prescribed flight path.
Findings from this inquiry will be crucial in implementing measures to obstruct future occurrences
and to uphold the safety standards that passengers expect from airlines.
Conclusion
While the swift actions of Captain Elsworth and the functionality of the GPWS prevented a potential catastrophe, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in aviation and the unwavering commitment required to maintain safety. EasyJet’s rapid response and the ongoing investigation reflect the industry’s dedication to continuous improvement and passenger safety.