Lightning strikes Airbus Beluga during take-off from Welsh airport

Lightning has struck one of the world’s largest aircraft as it was flying over north Wales. The Airbus Beluga, which weighs 85.6 tonnes, was hit while taking off from Hawarden Airport in Flintshire, local media reported. Airbus said the flight continued as normal and landed safely at its destination in Hamburg, Germany. “At 1pm today, Beluga XL5 departing Hawarden Airport was struck by lightning,” Airbus said. "This is a routine event in aviation and the aircraft continued with its journey to Hamburg as planned. In accordance with standard operating procedure, the aircraft will be inspected before its next flight." It was reported that dozens of people reported hearing a “huge explosion” and a bright flash. Some also reported a loss of power and TV reception.<br/>