Ensuring Flight Safety: Loganair Plane Hit by Lightning, Cracking Cockpit Windscreen
Passengers aboard Loganair Flight LM26 from Manchester to Aberdeen were left stunned when their aircraft was struck by lightning, causing the cockpit windscreen to crack. Morag McLeod, a passenger on the flight, recounted the harrowing experience of being on board when the incident occurred.
In a chilling account, Morag revealed that she was asleep during the flight, having traveled from Houston, Texas, with her partner. She initially mistook the lightning strike for turbulence until her partner, who has some aviation knowledge, woke her up, suspecting they had been hit by lightning. The pilots swiftly turned the aircraft back, signaling an emergency by code 7700, prompting the plane to return to Manchester Airport just 29 minutes after take-off.
Witnesses reported a tense atmosphere as the plane circled the skies above Manchester, awaiting clearance to land. Emergency services were on standby as the aircraft touched down safely. Morag managed to capture a photo of the cracked cockpit windscreen while being escorted off the plane, offering a glimpse into the severity of the situation.
Expert commentary from Loganair emphasized the airline’s commitment to passenger safety, with ongoing investigations into the lightning strike incident. The airline’s spokesperson reassured travelers that the utmost care was being taken to ensure the well-being of all passengers and crew members.
Loganair had previously warned of potential flight disruptions due to severe weather conditions across the UK, urging passengers to stay informed and make necessary adjustments to travel plans. The airline offered flexibility to passengers affected by the adverse weather, allowing them to change their itineraries without incurring additional charges.
As the investigation continues and passengers await further updates, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the critical importance of safety measures in place to protect passengers and crew alike. Flight LM26 may have been marred by a lightning strike, but the swift response and professionalism displayed by the Loganair team ensured a safe return for all onboard.