Virgin Australia flight to Hobart forced to turn back to Sydney after lightning strike overnight

UPDATED: TRAVELLERS on a Virgin Australia flight bound for Hobart saw a “big, blue flash” as the aircraft was struck by lightning, according to passenger Madeline Northam.

A Virgin plane takes off from Hobart Airport.

TRAVELLERS on a Virgin Australia flight bound for Hobart saw a “big, blue flash” as the aircraft was struck by lightning, according to passenger Madeline Northam.

Virgin Australia’s 6.15pm service from Sydney to Hobart, flight number VA1536, was turned around after the incident last night.

Ms Northam, from Hobart, said the plane flew into an electrical storm about 20 minutes into the journey.

“We saw it, a big blue flash, but the staff on board were fantastic,” Ms Northam said.

“The pilots came over the intercom and said we would be turning back to Sydney.

“I just thought ‘it’s Easter Monday, these people are working on a public holiday and keeping us safe in the skies’.

“It was a real testament to the professionalism of the staff on board.”

Sydney-Hobart flight struck by lightning last night & had to turn back. @VirginAustralia staff were amazing as were the @Accorhotels staff at the Mercure who dealt with a huge influx of guests with no notice. Virgin and Accor - I trust all these staff were paid penalty rates!

— Madeline Northam (@MadelineNortham) April 2, 2018

Ms Northam said she believed another three flights were grounded after the incident, with nearby hotels accommodating stranded passengers.

The aircraft underwent safety checks in Sydney overnight.

An additional service to transport passengers to Hobart was due to arrive in Hobart at 11.40am today.

Virgin Australia said the safety and welfare of its guests, crew and aircraft were the company’s top priority.