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Lightning strike forces emergency landing at Southend

A Blue Islands aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Southend after it was hit by lightning.


The ATR42 was en route from Jersey to London City when it was diverted to the Essex airport as a precaution.


The aircraft, which was carrying 30 passengers, landed safely at 6.37pm, the airline said. It was then inspected by engineers.


Airline officials said the return flight from London City to Jersey had been cancelled.


A Blue Islands spokesman said: “The Blue Islands flight SI718 from Jersey to London City diverted to London Southend Airport as a precaution following a lightning strike.


“The aircraft landed safely at London Southend at 18:37 and will be inspected by engineers.


“Passenger, crew and aircraft safety is our number one priority at all times.”


Another Blue Islands aircraft made an emergency landing at Southend earlier this month over concerns of an engine problem, the BBC reported.


The airline operates from Jersey and Guernsey to Bristol, Chambery, Geneva,
London City and Southampton.

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