A Florida-bound British Airways flight was forced to make an emergency diversion to Bermuda yesterday because of smoke in the cabin.

A spokesman for the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Services said they received a call about the diversion at around 4pm.

He added that the flight en route from London to Florida was diverted because of “an electrical problem causing smoke in the cabin”.

The spokesman said 12 fire engines and 17 firefighters were sent to the scene.

“He added: “The aircraft landed safely at the LF Wade International Airport at 4.22pm. All passengers disembarked safely.

“The cause of the electrical issue is under investigation at this time.”

A police spokesman said the plane had 241 people on board.

He added that access roads to the airport were blocked off for a short time as a precaution.

A spokeswoman for airport operators Skyport said the passengers waited in the US departures lounge as the plane was examined.

She added: “The aircraft departed Bermuda at 6.23pm with no further issues.”