The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Couple recall 'screaming' as crew and passengers 'thrown about' on horror easyJet flight
Christopher and Lynda Packer said 'there were crashing noises and people screaming'
A couple from Skipton describe their EasyJet flight home from Corfu as a nightmare after severe turbulence tossed cabin crew and passengers around the aircraft. Christopher and Lynda Packer, travelling with their 15-year-old son Jamie, were on EZY3484 heading to Liverpool John Lennon Airport when the turbulence struck.
The aircraft diverted to Milan Malpensa due to the weather, with passengers subsequently disembarking and a replacement aircraft used to complete the journey to Liverpool. The turbulence lasted five to ten minutes and involved significant drops in altitude and violent movements, according to the couple.
The couple say crew and passengers were thrown about and the cabin became almost pitch black during the incident. An air hostess was reportedly thrown against the ceiling before falling to the floor, and one crew member was said to have stated they had never experienced turbulence like it.
Both passengers and crew required medical attention in Milan, and the flight was delayed by more than 12 hours following the diversion. Christopher and Lynda report ongoing injuries, including spinal problems, and ongoing pain and anxiety related to flying. They have appointed specialist international serious injury lawyers to investigate the incident.
EasyJet confirmed the diversion to Milan for medical attention and said it has written to the Packers to check on welfare and provide assistance, emphasizing that safety is a priority and that pilots are trained to manage turbulence and incidents of this nature.