Emirates Flight Diverts to Frankfurt After Emergency Signal

Emirates flight EK31 from Dubai to London diverted to Frankfurt on October 1 after transmitting the international transponder code for a general emergency. Emirates said a passenger had a medical emergency, and that the aircraft landed safely before the passenger disembarked for further care. Flight-tracking material showed the Airbus A380 changing course toward Frankfurt after broadcasting code 7700. The flight had departed Dubai International Airport for London Heathrow. The emergency signal and diversion were visible in the tracking data, but that material does not establish what prompted the crew to declare the emergency. Emirates attributed the diversion to a passenger’s medical condition. A spokesperson said cabin crew assisted the passenger during the flight and medical support was arranged for arrival in Frankfurt. The passenger then left the aircraft to receive further medical attention, the airline said. A separate account said the reason for the emergency was not clear and relayed a less specific explanation from Emirates, citing operational reasons.