An "unresponsive" Air France plane over UK skies that lost radio contact prompted British authorities to scramble two airforce jets to escort the aircraft.
The Typhoon aircraft were launched from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire yesterday and helped guide the plane to a safe landing in Newcastle.
People reported their houses shaking after hearing what sounded like two loud explosions. These were later confirmed to have been sonic booms, BBC reported.
"Quick reaction alert Typhoon aircraft were launched today from RAF Coningsby to identify an unresponsive civilian aircraft. Communications were re-established and the aircraft has been safely landed," an RAF spokesperson said.
The French carrier confirmed that the unresponsive plane was one of theirs and said that it had been suffering from radio problems.
Communication was later re-established and the plane was guided to land safely in Newcastle.
"Air France confirms that due to a radio communication problem AF 1558 had to be accompanied by two British fighter aircrafts according to the procedure. The aircraft landed in Newcastle at 22:20 (Local Time). Safety of clients & crew is an absolute priority," Air France tweeted.
North Yorkshire Police also tweeted last night to reassure inhabitant around the area.
"Confirmation from RAF that loud bangs heard across the county were sonic booms from RAF Typhoon jets. No cause for concern," it said.
