Meridian
12 updates
8 April 2016

Reports of possible 'sonic boom' in Oxfordshire

Reports of a loud explosion in Oxfordshire - our cameraman reported hearing it in Witney.

Live updates

Jessica Buck describes hearing the sonic boom over Oxfordshire. She was working in Witney hen she heard a loud bang.

The sonic boom was caused by a military jet intercepting an unresponsive civilian aircraft.

An RAF spokesperson said: “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 escorted to Cardiff airport.”

A Typhoon like the one pictured was responsible for the boom Credit: PA

An explosion sounding like a 'sonic boom' has been heard over Northamptonshire.

Sonic boom is a common name for the loud noise that is created by the 'shock wave' produced by the air-plane that is traveling at speeds greater than that of sound.

It usually causes a loud bang and tremors can be felt on the ground.

The fire service have confirmed that the sound was caused by two Typhoon jets flying in the area.