History of the Flight
On 7 October 2012, easyJet flight EZY2075 (call sign EZY75LT) operated an Airbus A319-111, registration G-EZDU, from London to Budapest with 121 passengers on board. During the flight, the crew requested current meteorological data on two occasions.
Weather Conditions and Diversion Decision
While approaching Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport, the flight crew encountered strong thunderstorm rain, which prevented the airport from receiving arriving flights. The crew reviewed the available fuel quantity and assessed the positions of alternate aerodromes relative to the storm zone. They concluded that they had no chance to hold in the airspace of Budapest and needed to divert. The alternate aerodromes listed in the preparation documentation were either accessible only by flying through the storm zone or required a substantial detour. Considering the available fuel, the aerodromes in positions two, three, and four on the list could only be reached by emergency procedure.
Fuel Emergency Declaration
At 16:52 UTC, the crew communicated their intention to land at Tirana Airport, confirming this information several times upon request from air traffic control. The flight crew then reported a "Fuel Mayday" and confirmed it by repeating the declaration. This indicated that there was insufficient fuel on board to reach the alternate aerodrome without using at least part of the Final Reserve Fuel, which allows 30 minutes of holding pattern flight near an alternate aerodrome.
Diversion to Timisoara
Air traffic control approved a climb to flight level 120 and stated that the shortest, most direct approach would be provided. One minute later, the crew corrected their destination from Tirana to Timisoara Airport. At 17:02 UTC, the east sector controller of Budapest FIR asked the crew to confirm whether the emergency persisted and if any support was needed. The crew confirmed the Fuel Mayday situation but declined additional assistance.
Landing and Subsequent Flight
The aircraft continued with the Mayday declaration and landed safely at Timisoara Airport at 17:14 UTC. After landing, the aircraft was refueled. It then flew uneventfully to Budapest Airport, arriving at 19:36 local time.
Injuries and Damage
There were no personal injuries and no damage to the aircraft in connection with this occurrence. No other damage was reported.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Bureau of Hungary (TSB) investigated the occurrence as a serious incident. The investigation included review of radar images, voice records, weather data, flight documents, and crew responses. The final report noted that the investigating committee suggested a safety recommendation based on the conclusions.