India, Oct. 5 -- British Airways flight BA295 from London Heathrow to Chicago declared an emergency over Ireland, squawked 7,700 and made a rapid descent from around 37,000 feet to 9,000 feet before turning back towards London. The Boeing 777 was then seen flying in circles as it reduced its fuel load before returning to Heathrow. It has now landed in London.

According to flight-tracking service Flightradar24, BA295 was continuing to reduce its fuel weight as it prepared to return to London Heathrow. The aircraft was seen flying in circles, likely to burn off fuel before landing.

Long-haul aircraft can carry a large amount of fuel for transatlantic journeys, and reducing the fuel load can help bring the aircraft closer to an appropriate...