WestJet flight diverted to Greenland due to mechanical issue

The flight had to make an unscheduled landing in Greenland due to a mechanical problem. (Courtesy: Alexandra Amedola)

A WestJet flight on the way from London, England to Toronto had to make an unplanned landing in Greenland on Tuesday evening after experiencing a mechanical problem.

In a statement, WestJet said the plane had a problem with a cooling system for the aircraft’s avionics.

The Boeing 767 had 250 passengers and nine crew on board when it landed safely in Greenland. Passengers are being provided with meal vouchers while they wait for two relief planes to arrive, likely in the early morning hours.

A passenger on the plane told CTV that the plane was delayed on takeoff due to being hit by lightning. Alexandra Amedola said that the WestJet crew was wonderful and kept everyone calm during the flight, and the ground staff in Greenland were very accommodating, providing what food and comforts that they could.