A Virgin Atlantic flight bound for Jamaica was forced to divert to Ireland on Saturday after a technical issue was detected while the aircraft was crossing the North Atlantic.

In a statement, Virgin Atlantic said Flight VS165, operating from London Heathrow Airport to Montego Bay, Jamaica, was diverted to Shannon, Ireland, as a precautionary measure following the issue.

The flight, operated by an Airbus A330-900neo, departed London Heathrow at 4:04 pm (UK time) with 241 passengers, 10 cabin crew members and two pilots on board.

Approximately three hours into the journey, the flight crew identified a technical problem and turned the aircraft around. The plane landed safely at Shannon Airport at 9:24 pm (UK time).

Virgin Atlantic said a replacement aircraft was immediately dispatched to Shannon to transport passengers back to London Heathrow, where accommodation was provided.

Affected customers are being rebooked on flights to Montego Bay, subject to availability. The airline said passengers also have the option of choosing an alternative destination or requesting a refund.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “Flight VS165 from London Heathrow to Montego Bay on May 30, 2026 was diverted to Shannon, Ireland, as a precautionary measure following a technical issue with the aircraft.”

“The safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew is always our top priority and a replacement aircraft was sent immediately to Shannon to bring customers back to Heathrow where they were all offered accommodation. We sincerely apologise for the disruption to our customers’ journey, and our teams are in contact with them to discuss their options which include rebooking or a refund,” the representative added.