Flight travelling from Belfast to London forced to turn back

Q Newsdesk

A plane travelling from Belfast to London was forced to turn back this morning, after colliding with birds.

The Aer Lingus plane took off from Belfast City Airport at around 9.30am and was making its way towards London Heathrow when the collision took place.

It was forced to divert to Belfast International Airport.

All passenger and crew were safely disembarked.

A statement from Aer Lingus said:

"Aer Lingus flight EI930, 29^th September from Belfast City Airport to London Heathrow, was required to turn back when the aircraft experienced a bird strike shortly after take-off."

"The aircraft landed safely at Belfast International Airport and all guests and crew safely disembarked. Guests are being re-accommodated on the next available flights from Belfast City Airport and Dublin to London Heathrow today and are being provided surface transport from Belfast International Airport to either Belfast City Airport or Dublin. "

"Subsequently return flight EI931 from London Heathrow to Belfast City Airport has been cancelled. Those guests will be re-accommodated on flights to both Belfast and Dublin today, with ground transportation provided as needed. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to our guests.”