RAF fighter jets intercept Oslo plane and escort to Manchester

A Scandinavian Airlines flight from Oslo to Manchester was intercepted by the RAF's Eurofighter Typhoons while flying over the North East, and underwent an 'escorted landing' at Manchester Airport.

The aircrafts, which can reach a top speed of 1,550mph, were deployed in response to the commercial plane temporarily losing communication.

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

The fighter jets flying over Greater Manchester today (Image: Iwan Tottle)

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

"The flight landed safely in Manchester and the departing passengers are about to take off to Oslo.

"An investigation has been launched and the matter is being handled by relevant authorities as per standard procedures and we cannot comment any further."

The fighter jets broke the sound barrier as they responded to the incident, creating a sonic boom which was heard by residents in York as they flew over.

A spokesperson for the RAF added: "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.”