Did Jet2 Flight LS879 Leave Over 30 Passengers Behind at Manchester Airport?

A major operational failure occurred at Manchester Airport on January 19, 2026, when a Jet2 flight leaves passengers behind. More than 30 travelers missed their flight to Alicante, Spain, after a critical Manchester Airport boarding error during the process. The incident involved Jet2 flight LS879, which departed as scheduled while the passengers waited nearby. This unusual airline operational breakdown has led to an urgent review of ground procedures by the carrier and the airport.

Key Details of the LS879 Incident

The incident involved approximately 31 to 36 passengers booked on flight LS879 Alicante departure. The group had successfully passed through the gate and had their boarding passes scanned. Passengers were then instructed to proceed down a stairwell near the stand.

The Boarding Breakdown

Instead of following the airbridge to the aircraft, the passengers were misdirected. They took a wrong turn down a set of stairs. This path led them to a dead-end space, sometimes called 'the pepper pot,' with a locked door. The group waited there for up to 40 minutes, believing they were awaiting further instruction or a shuttle bus.

Passengers reported seeing the aircraft depart without them. An airport worker eventually found the stranded travelers and delivered the shocking news. One passenger, Matt from Denton, described the experience as chaotic and frustrating. He expressed disbelief, stating, "I am gobsmacked at the fact they don't do a headcount."

Industry Implications and Airline Response

This passenger misdirection incident highlights potential flaws in airport ground staff procedures and boarding reconciliation failure. Modern aviation relies heavily on electronic scanning for passenger manifests. However, this event suggests a need for better physical checks. The incident raises serious questions about final passenger checks and load-control safeguards.

• The group included elderly passengers and families with children.
• Passengers were rebooked onto alternative flights to Alicante later that day.
• Jet2 offered each affected customer a £10 refreshment voucher.

Urgent Investigation Jet2

Jet2 issued an apology for the significant disruption. A spokesperson confirmed the airline is treating the matter with urgent investigation Jet2. They stated the review is taking place with the airport. The airline acknowledged an error with stairwell directions. A missing rope barrier may have been a contributing factor to the misdirection.

Manchester Airport indicated that boarding is primarily an airline-managed process. This suggests a potential dispute over responsibility for the error. The incident serves as a crucial reminder for all airlines and airports. Clear signage and strict airport ground staff procedures are essential. They must ensure a seamless and safe passenger experience disruption is avoided. The investigation's findings will likely lead to procedural changes. These changes will aim to prevent a repeat of this rare, yet significant, operational lapse. The core issue remains: a failure in the final check of the passenger manifest against those physically on board. This is a key safety and security measure in commercial aviation.

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