LIAT Air Flight Makes Safe Emergency Return to Guyana After Engine Issue

A LIAT Air flight bound for Antigua was forced to turn back to Guyana on Sunday after an engine-related problem developed about 30 minutes into the journey, prompting the aircraft to declare an emergency.

Flight 5L770, carrying 47 passengers, departed Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at approximately 11:55 a.m. for V.C. Bird International Airport. At around 12:25 p.m., the pilot contacted the Control Tower and advised that the aircraft would be returning to Guyana.

The emergency became visible on flight-tracking systems when the aircraft began transmitting Squawk 7700, the internationally recognised transponder code used to signal a general emergency.

The aircraft, identified as an Embraer ERJ-145 operated by LIAT Air, subsequently turned back towards Timehri as airport emergency procedures were activated. The Aerodrome Fire Service and other emergency personnel were placed on standby to respond if necessary.

According to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), air traffic controllers promptly cleared the aircraft to return to CJIA and coordinated its approach while maintaining separation from other aircraft in the area.

The aircraft landed safely at CJIA, with all 47 passengers disembarking without incident. No injuries were reported.

The GCAA subsequently commended personnel at its Air Navigation Services Area Control Centre for their handling of the emergency, highlighting the coordination between air traffic controllers, airport authorities and emergency responders.

The authority said the response demonstrated its continued commitment to safety and professional standards within Guyana’s air traffic management system.

The aircraft remained on the ground at CJIA following the incident as LIAT’s technical personnel began assessing the reported engine problem and determining the necessary repairs.

CJIA said it was working with the GCAA and LIAT as the matter was reviewed. No further details had been released on the specific technical fault or when the aircraft would return to service.

The flight was operating the Georgetown-Antigua route, connecting Cheddi Jagan International Airport with V.C. Bird International Airport.