Sequence & Resolution
Event Date05/13/2026
Level
Incident
Flight PhaseClimb
Affected AltitudeFL160
Technical Issue Details
•Embraer ERJ-190LR (G-LCYM) was struck by lightning shortly after departure from London City Airport.
•The incident occurred on flight BA8724 bound for Glasgow International Airport.
•A passenger reported hearing a loud bang at the moment of the strike.
Outcome / Handling
•The crew continued climbing to FL160 and conducted checks of the onboard systems.
•As a safety precaution, the pilots decided to return to London City Airport, landing safely on runway 27 approximately 65 minutes after takeoff.
•No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
Current Status
•The aircraft remained grounded for approximately 15.5 hours for thorough technical inspections.
•It was later positioned to Exeter Airport for further maintenance before returning to active service.
•Passengers were transferred to a replacement flight operated by Embraer E190LR (G-LCAD), arriving in Glasgow with a delay of about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Sourceaeroinside.com
Flight Information
Flight NumberBA8724
Flight Duration65 minutes
Departure Runway27 (LCY)
Landing Runway27 (LCY)
Involved AirlineBA CityFlyer
Involved FlightBA8724
Replacement AircraftG-LCAD
Delay Duration2 hours 20 minutes