TUI flight from Portugal to UK squawks alert after ‘medical emergency’ declared

Captain Hoke, a Boeing 757/767 captain for a package express airline and AeroSavvy website contributor, told the website: “If a crew resets their transponder to the emergency code of 7700 (squawking 7700), all air traffic control facilities in the area are immediately alerted that the aircraft has an emergency situation.

“It’s up to the crew to let ATC know what the exact situation is. It may be an aircraft problem, medical issue, or something else.

“In some cases, a crew may not elect to change their transponder to 7700 (it’s not required). If I’m talking to Chicago Approach and have a problem, I’ll tell them the problem, declare an emergency over the radio and get vectors to land immediately.

“In an international environment where language and communication may be challenging, squawking 7700 makes it very clear to ATC that the crew needs priority and assistance,” he said.

Back in May, a passenger flight from Spain to Scotland squawked 7700 and was diverted to France following a medical emergency.

The Jet2 flight from Spain’s Malaga to Glasgow on Thursday, May 5 was forced to land at Nantes Atlantique Airport and it was later revealed that the man had died.

A Jet2.com spokesperson said at the time: “Flight LS134 from Malaga to Glasgow diverted to Nantes last week due to a customer requiring urgent medical attention.

“Regrettably, we can confirm that the customer sadly passed away.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the customer’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”

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