BA grounds three aircraft in radiation scare
British Airways has grounded three Boeing 767s after low traces of a radioactive substance was found on two of the aircraft.
Two of the aircraft are at London Heathrow following forensic testing. The third aircraft remains in Moscow awaiting the necessary clearance to return to the UK.
The airline understands from advice it has been given that the risk to public health is low, a statement said.
BA said today it was continuing to make “every effort” to contact 33,000 passengers who travelled on 221 European flights operated by the three aircraft identified by the investigation. An estimated 3,000 staff alos need to be checked, according to media reports.
The airline has taken calls from 2,500 customers on a special helpline as of 09.00 UK time.
The aircraft were taken out of service yesterday (Wednesday) after being identified by the UK government as part of the investigation into the death of former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko.
The three 767s were grounded to enable forensic tests to be carried out. The airline’s operation is expected to run normally today, BA said.
“The initial results of the forensic tests has shown very low traces of a radioactive substance onboard two of the three aircraft,” the airline said. “British Airways has been advised that this investigation is confined solely to these three B767 aircraft, which will remain out of service until further notice.”
“The airline is in the process of making contact with customers who have travelled on flights operated by these aircraft, which operate within Europe,” a statement said. “The airline has published the flights affected on its website, www.ba.com, and customers on these flights who wish to receive further advice are advised to telephone NHS Direct on 0845 4647.”
A special helpline for customers and staff has been set up on 0845 6040171 or 0191 211 3690 for international calls.
“Further information will be released as it becomes available and information will be posted on the airline’s website,” BA said.
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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