![]() ![]() ![]() The qualified first officer, who was flying alongside an experienced captain, was replaced with a new pilot to ensure full compliance with Virgin Atlantic’s training protocols, which exceed industry standards. The airline insisted the safety of the plane was not compromised and that both crew members were fully licenced and qualified to fly the aircraft.Ī spokesman for Virgin Atlantic, reported The Telegraph, said: “Due to a rostering error, flight VS3 from London Heathrow to New York-JFK returned to Heathrow on Monday 2nd May shortly after take-off. Have you had a similar experience on an aircraft? Let us know in the comments section While first officers are qualified pilots whose role is to ensure the safety of the flight, support the captain and talk to air traffic control, they need to be accompanied by a training captain according to Virgin Atlantic policy, it is reported. “It was embarrassing for everyone and the passengers were furious.”įlight map showing Flight VS3 making a U-turn over Ireland on Monday (Image: ) “The skipper had no choice but to go back to Heathrow and find a more experienced member of the crew. Flight attendant spills secrets on 'how to ask' for free food, better seats and upgrades.Spain holidays: Full list of hotspots affected by new 'all-inclusive' alcohol ban.“The plane got as far as Ireland and then they found out the first officer was still in training. The Flight VS3 finally arrived in New York two hours and 40 minutes late.Ī source told The Sun “You could have cut the tension in the cockpit with a knife. ![]() Passengers were left angry with the long delay and the knock-on effect for other flights and connections. It then waited on the tarmac until a qualified pilot was found. READ MORE: Two elderly US army veterans fined €5,000 each for interfering with operation of Shannon Airport in anti-war protest There was chaos on the Airbus A330 on Monday as it was over Ireland, leaving passengers terrified as it had to return to London. The Virgin Atlantic flight from Heathrow Airport was just 40 minutes into its journey when it was discovered by managers on the ground that the first officer had not finished their final flying exams. A plane heading to New York was forced to do a U-turn over Ireland when it was revealed the co-pilot was still in training, it is reported. ![]()
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