EasyJet A320 Diverts After Two Balked Landings

An easyJet Airbus A320-200 sustained main landing gear damage after two balked landing attempts at Funchal Airport on February 13, 2026, forcing a diversion to nearby Porto Santo.

The aircraft, registered G-EZTY, was operating flight U2-8519 from London Gatwick to Madeira. During its initial approach to runway 05 at Funchal, the jet touched down but initiated a go-around. The crew positioned for a second attempt on the same runway, but again executed a balked landing.

Following the second go-around, the flight diverted to Porto Santo Airport, where it landed on runway 36 without further incident. The diversion occurred approximately one hour after the first attempted landing and around 20 minutes after the second.

Funchal’s runway 05 is known for challenging approach conditions, including variable winds and terrain influences, which can necessitate go-arounds when approach stability criteria are not met.

After landing in Porto Santo, the aircraft was found to have sustained damage to its main landing gear, preventing it from continuing scheduled operations. The aircraft remained grounded until February 16 while arrangements were made to recover it.

To facilitate the return, easyJet diverted flight U2-8521 from London Gatwick to Porto Santo to position a replacement crew. That flight later continued to Funchal, arriving with a delay of approximately one hour.

The damaged aircraft subsequently departed Porto Santo about three days and seven hours after its diversion, operating a positioning flight to London Gatwick as U2-9002. Following inspection and any required maintenance, the A320 returned to commercial service on the morning of February 17.

No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, avherald.com