Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:52pm on 05 Oct 2026,Monday International
British Airways flight BA295 from London Heathrow to Chicago declared an emergency over Ireland after squawking 7700 and rapidly descending from about 37,000 feet to 9,000 feet. The Boeing 777 then reversed course towards Heathrow and was seen flying in circles while reducing its fuel load before landing back in London. Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft had dropped nearly 28,000 feet within minutes, although the reason for the emergency and rapid descent was not immediately clear. Flightradar24 said the circling was likely intended to burn fuel and reduce the aircraft’s weight before landing. Long-haul aircraft carry substantial fuel, and holding patterns can also be used for congestion, weather delays or operational issues. BA295 has now landed at Heathrow.
