easyJet flight 'calls mayday' as its forced to abandon journey and divert to Manchester Airport

An easyJet flight has been forced to make an emergency landing at Manchester Airport after declaring 'mayday' on its way to Leeds.

The plane had set off from Belfast International just after 3pm. It was due to land at Leeds Bradford at around 4pm.

But the plane was forced to abandon its journey after struggling to land in high winds in Yorkshire. The MEN understands a mayday alert was called amid concerns the plane was running low on fuel.

The plane was rerouted and landed in Manchester shortly before 5pm.

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An easyJet spokesperson confirmed the diversion, stating: "Flight EZY047 from Belfast International to Leeds Bradford has diverted to Manchester due to strong winds at Leeds gusting outside the limits of the aircraft.,".

They added: "The safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew is our highest priority and we are working to assist customers with options for onward travel from Manchester.", reports Belfast Live.