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Large commercial aircraft photographed from below against blue sky, trailing four white contrails behind it
✓ PerthNowScience & Systems1 min read

BA Boeing 777 nearly hits silver object the size of four toasters

A Boeing 777 carrying 256 passengers nearly hit an unidentified object over Surrey on June 24, passing within 50 feet.

The British Airways flight was climbing to 6,000 feet after takeoff from London Heathrow. Pilots spotted a shiny silver object moving in the opposite direction.

The object traveled very fast and passed extremely close to the right wing. Controllers described it as metallic and reflective.

It was about the size of four toasters. The UK Airprox Board investigated but could not identify the object.

The board said luck or providence had a big role in avoiding a crash. British Airways said the crew reported the incident so authorities could investigate.

256
Passengers
50 feet
Separation distance
About four toasters
Object size
June 24 over Guildford, Surrey
Date and location

Why it mattersUnidentified objects near major flight routes pose a safety risk to aircraft and passengers. This incident shows how quickly danger can strike during routine operations.

AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, but the incident highlights ongoing airspace safety challenges globally that could affect Australian airlines operating international routes.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago

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