Holidaymakers flying from the North East to Majorca this morning have been diverted to France after passengers reportedly ‘smelled burning’.

The Ryanair flight left Newcastle International Airport shortly before 9am and was near Toulouse when the alarm was raised.

Flight FR2347 made an unscheduled stop rather than continuing on to Palma de Mallorca Airport.

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It is understood concerns had been raised by passengers about a potential engine problem and the plane was grounded at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport where it was met on the tarmac by a number of fire engines.

It is understood passengers were initially told to stay seated on board.

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A spokeswoman from Ryanair said: "This flight from Newcastle to Palma diverted to Toulouse due to a minor technical issue with the aircraft.

"To minimise disruption to passengers, we have arranged for an alternative aircraft to bring them to Palma later today.

"Affected passengers have been notified and provided with refreshment vouchers.

"Ryanair sincerely apologises to all affected passengers.”

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