CHICAGO- A United Airlines (UA) flight from New York (EWR) to Edinburgh (EDI) declared a medical emergency shortly before landing, prompting an immediate response from emergency services upon arrival.
Flight UA36, operating between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Edinburgh Airport (EDI), transmitted a 7700 emergency squawk as it approached its destination. The alert signaled an urgent onboard situation, later confirmed as a medical emergency.
United Airlines Declares Medical Emergency
United Airlines (UA) Flight UA36 departed from Newark, New Jersey, en route to the Scottish capital when a passenger experienced a medical emergency mid-flight.
As the aircraft neared Edinburgh on Monday morning, the crew transmitted a 7700 squawk code, indicating an onboard emergency.
The emergency declaration occurred at approximately 9:53 AM, prompting swift coordination with ground services.
The aircraft continued its approach and landed safely at Edinburgh Airport, where emergency responders were on standby.
Upon arrival, medical personnel boarded the aircraft to assess and assist the affected passenger.
The nature of the medical issue was not immediately disclosed, but authorities confirmed the situation was handled upon landing.
A United Airlines spokesperson addressed the incident, stating, “Upon its scheduled arrival at Edinburgh Airport, United Flight 36 was immediately met by emergency services to assist a customer’s medical situation.”
The airline did not provide additional details regarding the passenger’s condition, citing privacy concerns.
However, sources indicate that the quick response ensured appropriate medical attention was administered promptly.
Similar Incident
Air India (AI) has also experienced similar emergency diversions in recent years. On November 30, 2024, Air India Flight AI106, operating from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Delhi (DEL), was diverted to Moscow Zhukovsky Airport due to an onboard medical emergency.
According to FlightRadar24 data, the aircraft departed from Newark at 4:25 PM UTC. Approximately nine hours into the flight, the aircraft altered its course while flying over the Kama River in Russia. It landed safely at Moscow Zhukovsky Airport at 2:07 AM UTC.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that the diversion was due to a medical emergency, with some accounts indicating that a passenger passed away mid-flight. However, official confirmation from Air India was pending at the time.
The aircraft remained on the ground for approximately two hours and 30 minutes before resuming its journey to New Delhi, where it landed safely at 10:46 AM UTC on December 1, 2024.
The flight was operated by a 17.2-year-old Boeing 777-300ER, registered as VT-ALJ, featuring Star Alliance livery.
What Happens When a Flight Declares a Medical Emergency?
When a flight declares a medical emergency, the crew follows strict protocols to ensure passenger safety.
This includes notifying air traffic control, coordinating with ground medical teams, and, if necessary, prioritizing landing clearance.
In this case, Edinburgh Airport’s emergency teams were alerted in advance, allowing for a rapid response upon touchdown.
The 7700 squawk code used by Flight UA36 is a universal distress signal indicating an urgent onboard issue, ensuring immediate attention from air traffic controllers and ground crews.
Bottom Line
United Airlines Flight UA36’s safe landing and the swift intervention of emergency services highlight the efficiency of aviation safety protocols.
While the passenger’s condition remains undisclosed, the airline and airport authorities managed the situation effectively, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
Featured Image By Clément Alloing
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
The post United Airlines New York to Edinburgh Flight Declares Medical Emergency appeared first on Aviation A2Z.