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EasyJet Pilot Suspended After Near-Miss with Mountain in Egypt

The Airbus A320 came dangerously close to a mountain during its descent, triggering a safety alarm and prompting an ongoing investigation.

  • The incident occurred on February 2 during an EasyJet flight from Manchester, UK, to Hurghada, Egypt, with 190 passengers and crew onboard.
  • The plane descended to an altitude of 2,329 feet, coming within 771 feet of a mountain peak, far below the standard clearance of 6,000 feet.
  • The Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) alarm sounded in the cockpit, prompting the pilot to level the aircraft, which landed safely.
  • Captain Paul Elsworth, the pilot in command, reported the incident the following day and has been suspended pending an investigation by EasyJet and aviation authorities.
  • Passengers were reportedly unaware of the near-miss, and another flight crew was assigned to fly the return journey to Manchester.
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