What Happened on WestJet Flight WS2 from Calgary to London Heathrow? Emergency Over Northern Ireland Explained!

Published on December 23, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

A WestJet Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flying over the mountains

A WestJet flight traveling from Calgary (YYC) to London Heathrow (LHR) declared a general emergency while cruising at 39,000 feet over Northern Ireland on December 22, 2025. Flight WS2, operating on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (Registration: C-GUDO), experienced the emergency situation shortly after crossing the Atlantic. The aircraft’s transponder code was changed to 7700, signaling to air traffic control that the plane was dealing with a serious issue. This signal is a universally recognized emergency code used by pilots to alert authorities to various critical situations.

The emergency unfolded over the Belfast and Ballymena areas in Northern Ireland, prompting swift responses from air traffic controllers, who are trained to assist flights in distress. Initial reports indicated a medical emergency onboard, which caused the flight crew to act decisively in managing the situation.

What Was the Reason for the Emergency?

The emergency was declared due to a medical emergency involving a passenger on board the flight. In such instances, pilots usually consider diverting the flight to the nearest airport to seek immediate medical help. The nearest major airports, including Dublin (DUB) and Manchester (MAN), were potential options for the flight crew. However, after assessing the situation, the crew deemed it safer and more efficient to continue the flight to its original destination, London Heathrow, where emergency medical teams could be waiting to provide care.

How Was the Situation Resolved?

Once the emergency was declared, the aircraft changed its transponder code from 7700 to 7647, a discrete non-emergency code, signaling that the immediate crisis had been addressed. This change in code was an indication that the situation was being effectively managed, and the flight was continuing its descent into London. The aircraft was cleared to maintain its course towards Heathrow after this resolution.

Landing and Ground Support

Despite the initial emergency declaration, WestJet flight WS2 successfully completed its journey, landing at London Heathrow’s Terminal 4 at 12:27 PM GMT on December 22, 2025. Upon arrival, emergency medical services were waiting on the tarmac to provide care for the passenger in need. The patient was promptly attended to by medical professionals as soon as the aircraft was on the ground.

The coordinated efforts of the flight crew, air traffic controllers, and emergency medical teams on the ground ensured that the situation was handled efficiently. It was a reassuring end to what could have been a much more dire situation, showing the high level of preparedness involved in managing inflight emergencies.

The Role of the Flight Crew and Air Traffic Control

The response to this emergency highlighted the training and expertise of both the flight crew and air traffic controllers. The flight crew’s ability to quickly assess the medical situation and determine the best course of action, while maintaining communication with air traffic control, was instrumental in ensuring that the flight reached its destination safely. In collaboration with air traffic control, they also made the decision to proceed with the flight to London rather than diverting it to another airport, which ultimately led to a timely and efficient resolution.

The Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

WestJet’s aircraft, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (Registration: C-GUDO), is known for its long-haul capabilities, comfortable seating, and advanced technology. This aircraft model is often used for international flights, such as the Calgary to London route, given its range and efficiency. Despite the in-flight emergency, the aircraft performed well, maintaining stability and reliability throughout the incident.

What Happens After Such Emergencies?

While incidents like these are rare, they underscore the importance of emergency protocols and the quick action of airline crews, ground support, and air traffic controllers. In this case, the flight’s crew followed established procedures, and despite the medical emergency, the flight was able to continue its route and land without further incident. For the affected passenger, swift medical assistance was available upon landing, ensuring that appropriate care was provided as soon as possible.

Conclusion: A Safe Resolution After a Tense Moment

The WestJet flight WS2, which had initially squawked 7700 while flying over Northern Ireland, was able to continue its journey to London Heathrow and land safely. The decision by the flight crew to continue to their scheduled destination, rather than diverting to another airport, was a key part of ensuring a safe resolution. The emergency medical situation was swiftly handled, and the affected passenger received immediate care upon landing.

For travelers, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in aviation and the skill of flight crews in managing unforeseen situations. While such emergencies can be unsettling, they are often resolved quickly and efficiently, allowing passengers to reach their destinations safely.

The flight’s safe landing at London Heathrow demonstrates the importance of coordination between pilots, air traffic control, and emergency medical teams. This incident, while alarming at first, ended with a positive outcome, reinforcing the effectiveness of international aviation safety protocols.

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