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11/04/2008
Lightning Strikes Twice For Bertie
The Irish Taoiseach's plane on route to Belfast Airport has been struck by lightning as it touched down - the second such occurrence.
A Government spokesman said the Gulf Stream aircraft later landed safely and none of the eight passengers or four crew onboard were injured.
Engineers are checking the plane to ensure it will make the return journey to Dublin safely.
The Taoiseach, Junior Minister Noel Treacy and Government officials were travelling to Belfast to attend an event marking the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement being filmed by the BBC.
The aircraft was on its final approach to Belfast City Airport at around 4.30pm when passengers saw a bright flash through the windows.
The Taoiseach still attended the event, although reportedly slightly shaken. Known for being a nervous flyer, Mr Ahern said: “I just want to thank the crew. They did a good job.”
This is the second time Bertie has been hit by lightning as the same jet was previously hit on the wing, during a trip to Hillsborough for talks to restore power-sharing in October 2003.
Planes are hit fairly regularly by lightning, and most pilots can expect to struck while in the air at least once a year.
(DW)
A Government spokesman said the Gulf Stream aircraft later landed safely and none of the eight passengers or four crew onboard were injured.
Engineers are checking the plane to ensure it will make the return journey to Dublin safely.
The Taoiseach, Junior Minister Noel Treacy and Government officials were travelling to Belfast to attend an event marking the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement being filmed by the BBC.
The aircraft was on its final approach to Belfast City Airport at around 4.30pm when passengers saw a bright flash through the windows.
The Taoiseach still attended the event, although reportedly slightly shaken. Known for being a nervous flyer, Mr Ahern said: “I just want to thank the crew. They did a good job.”
This is the second time Bertie has been hit by lightning as the same jet was previously hit on the wing, during a trip to Hillsborough for talks to restore power-sharing in October 2003.
Planes are hit fairly regularly by lightning, and most pilots can expect to struck while in the air at least once a year.
(DW)
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Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Cloud and rain soon clearing away eastwards this evening. Then the rest of the night will be mainly dry with just the odd shower. Winds easing down. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
