An EasyJet A320neo aircraft recently skidded off the taxiway at Keflavik Airport in Iceland, marking a significant incident in the aviation industry. The aircraft, registered as G-UJEB, was operating an EasyJet flight EZY12BV (U28843) from Gatwick, London to Keflavik.
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The incident occurred on January 14, 2024, when the aircraft landed safely at Keflavik Airport amid a cold snap¹. After touching down, the aircraft was able to slow down to taxiing speed. However, while vacating the runway on the left at taxiway M-1 and then left on M, the aircraft veered off the taxiway². It came to a stop with its nose over a grass verge. The ground crew promptly evacuated the passengers and personnel. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident. The aircraft has since been taken out of service, and a replacement jet was arranged for the return journey.
The cause of the incident is currently under investigation. However, icy conditions were observed on the roads across Iceland on the day of the incident. It is unclear whether similar conditions were present on the taxiway at Keflavik Airport. This incident comes at a time when the aviation industry is grappling with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The EasyJet group, including its Thai subsidiaries, faced significant financial difficulties as a result of the pandemic and subsequently entered receivership.
Despite these challenges, the airline remains optimistic about its future. In September 2023, the Thai Central Bankruptcy Court approved the airlines' financial rehabilitation plan. This plan sets out a structured path for recovery, including the addition of 11 aircraft within the next two years, a reduction in operating costs through the renegotiation of leasing and maintenance agreements, and a debt repayment plan. While this incident is a setback for EasyJet, it underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and thorough investigations in ensuring the continued safety and reliability of air travel.