A passenger jet operated by EasyJet was compelled to abandon its approach to Paris-Orly Airport on Sunday afternoon when the pilot observed fireworks being launched by a wedding celebration in close proximity to the landing strip.
The aircraft, travelling from Venice, encountered the unexpected hazard just moments before it was due to touch down, with celebratory projectiles visible on the tarmac below.
Operations at the French capital’s second-largest airport were disrupted following the incident, which occurred at approximately 5.40pm local time on April 5.
The captain of flight EJU4874 spotted bursts of light and smoke near the threshold of runway three as the plane made its final descent, prompting an immediate decision to pull away from the danger.
Responding swiftly to the threat, the pilot increased power and climbed sharply to steer the aircraft clear of the area.
The plane then circled above the regions of Essonne, Sénart, portions of Seine-et-Marne, and eastern Val-de-Marne while awaiting further instructions from air traffic control.
Those responsible for the pyrotechnics were identified at the junction of Rue Lamartine and Rue du 8-Mai-1945 in Villeneuve-le-Roi, situated near warehouses belonging to the Staf transport company.
Emergency protocols were activated in the control tower, resulting in the immediate closure of runway three.
The plane then circled above the regions of Essonne, Sénart, portions of Seine-et-Marne, and eastern Val-de-Marne while awaiting further instructions from air traffic control
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With options limited, controllers guided the Venice flight towards an alternative landing strip.
The aircraft subsequently touched down on runway four “without incident,” according to the prosecutor’s office.
The runway remained out of service until 7pm as armed police officers were dispatched to determine the source of the explosions.
Their investigation revealed that a wedding convoy comprising approximately fifteen vehicles was behind the fireworks display.
The captain of flight EJU4874 spotted bursts of light and smoke near the threshold of runway three as the plane made its final descent
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The prosecutor’s office confirmed that “a sedan and several individuals firing fireworks into the air” had been identified in connection with the incident.
Despite the disruption caused to airport operations and the potential danger posed to the incoming aircraft, no individuals have yet been taken into custody.
The location where the fireworks were discharged sits adjacent to the airport perimeter, raising questions about security measures around one of France’s busiest aviation hubs.
Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the reckless celebration.
Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the reckless celebration
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An EasyJet spokesman confirmed the details of the incident.
“EasyJet can confirm that the captain of flight EJU4874 from Venice to Paris Orly on April 5 elected to perform a routine ‘go around’ on arrival into Orly due to perceived fireworks in the vicinity of the runway,” the spokesman said.
The budget airline also emphasised that its flight crew are extensively trained to execute such manoeuvres when circumstances require.
“EasyJet’s pilots are highly trained in order to perform ‘go arounds’ as a precaution and in line with our procedures and the flight landed normally. At no point was the safety of the passengers onboard compromised,” the spokesman added.
The carrier reiterated that protecting those travelling aboard its aircraft remains its foremost concern
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The carrier reiterated that protecting those travelling aboard its aircraft remains its foremost concern.
“The safety and well-being of its passengers and crew is always EasyJet’s highest priority,” EasyJet said.
Paris-Orly Airport, which is France’s second-largest, welcomed almost 35 million passengers last year.
The French capital also remains a popular wedding spot in the continent, with nuptials attracted to landmark attractions such as the Eiffel Tower.
