In a shocking turn of events, two British Airways planes were struck by lightning while flying into London’s busiest airport this past Sunday. Dramatic video footage captured the harrowing moment, sending a jolt through the aviation community and raising questions about flight safety during severe weather.
One of the planes, Flight BA919 from Stuttgart, Germany, to Heathrow Airport, was hit on its wing as it navigated a dark and stormy sky around 2 p.m. The intense lightning strike forced the jet to divert to Gatwick Airport, landing an hour late. Passengers were then transported the 45 miles back to Heathrow by road.
“It was shocking,” a passenger named Jeco told The Sun, praising the British Airways crew for their professionalism and calm demeanor during the incident. “The BA crew were amazing,” he added, highlighting their ability to maintain composure and ensure passenger safety amidst the chaos.
A FlightAware map revealed the plane’s initially smooth journey before the storm wreaked havoc, causing the aircraft to circle and ultimately move away from Heathrow. The decision to divert to Gatwick was confirmed by a British Airways spokesperson, who cited “weather-related conditions in the region” as the reason for the change in course.
The drama didn’t end there. A second British Airways flight, en route from Lisbon to London, was also struck by lightning during the same powerful storm. One passenger described the terrifying moment, saying, “Just got struck by lightning on the approach into Heathrow. It entered just underneath the flight deck and left the tail – we saw it shoot through the cabin.”
Despite the electrifying experience, the passenger reassured that the flight itself was unaffected. “Customers were kept informed, and the flight continued its approach for an uneventful arrival,” he noted, commending the crew for their effective communication and steady handling of the situation.
This incident underscores the importance of skilled piloting and effective airline protocols during extreme weather conditions. Lightning strikes on aircraft, while rare, are not unheard of and modern planes are designed to withstand such occurrences. The resilience of these aircraft and the expertise of their crews play a crucial role in ensuring passenger safety.
The unsettling events come amidst broader concerns about aviation safety and the impact of severe weather on air travel. While lightning strikes are a natural phenomenon, the ability of airlines to respond swiftly and safely is a testament to the rigorous training and preparedness of flight crews.
For now, passengers and aviation enthusiasts alike can take comfort in the fact that both flights landed safely and no injuries were reported. The quick and effective response by British Airways crew members highlights the professionalism and dedication required to manage such unexpected challenges.
As these events continue to make headlines, they serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the critical importance of experienced pilots and crew. In the face of adversity, British Airways demonstrated why they remain a trusted name in aviation, ensuring that even in the stormiest of skies, passenger safety is never compromised.
