RAF jets escort Oslo to Manchester flight after communication lost

RAF Typhoon jets were scrambled to escort a flight into Manchester after it lost contact due to a technical fault.

The Scandinavian Airlines SK 4609 flight from Oslo to Manchester landed safely at 12:48 GMT, Manchester Airport said.

The Ministry of Defence said Typhoons from RAF Coningsby intercepted the jet and communications were later restored.

Scandinavian Airlines said there was "never any danger to passengers".

An airline spokeswoman said: "Flight SK4609 from Oslo to Manchester this afternoon underwent an escorted landing in response to a brief and temporary loss of communication.

"A standard procedure was initiated but there was never any danger to the flight or its passengers."

She said the flight landed safely and was preparing to take off again in the opposite direction to take separate passengers to Oslo.

An investigation has been launched and the matter was being handled by relevant authorities as per standard procedures, she added.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this afternoon from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft that had lost communications.

"Subsequently, communications were re-established, the aircraft was intercepted and safely escorted to Manchester."

Manchester Airport said it had put on extra staff to support any passengers who may need it.

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