An easyJet aircraft has been forced to turn back to Manchester after an "extraordinary circumstance".
The flight, which departed Manchester Airport en route to the Turkish resort destination of Izmir on Monday, reached only as far as Norfolk before executing an abrupt reversal.
FlightRadar tracking data revealed the aircraft performed a dramatic U-turn over the North Sea.
The plane, which took off at 5pm, returned to Manchester Airport roughly one hour after its initial take-off.
An easyJet aircraft was compelled to turn back shortly after departure on Monday evening
PAThe sudden diversion affected passengers who were expecting to reach the popular Turkish coastal city.
The aircraft's flight path showed the extent of the unexpected route change before landing back at the departure airport.
EasyJet confirmed that flight EZY2159 was diverted due to what the airline described as a "passenger welfare issue".
A spokesperson for the airline explained that the aircraft "was required to return to Manchester due to a customer requiring urgent medical assistance".
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The flight departed Manchester Airport en route to the Turkish resort destination of Izmir
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The plane "landed routinely in line with procedures and was met by medical services on arrival" at Manchester Airport.
EasyJet characterised the incident as "an extraordinary circumstance" that was "out of our control".
The airline has not disclosed further specifics regarding the nature of the medical emergency.
Passengers received an update on Tuesday evening explaining the overnight delay was caused by the passenger welfare matter.
The flight resumed its journey to Izmir (pictured) on Tuesday morning after the overnight delay
GETTY
The flight resumed its journey to Izmir on Tuesday morning after the overnight delay.
EasyJet issued an apology to affected passengers, said: "We're sorry that your flight has been delayed overnight. This is due to a passenger welfare issue."
The airline added: "We are working hard to arrange your new flight for tomorrow. Once again, we're very sorry for the disruption to your travel plans."
EasyJet emphasised that "the safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority".
The carrier apologised for what it termed "the disturbance" caused by the medical emergency diversion.
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