Disaster averted on RAF training run

TWO formations of RAF planes almost collided during training in the Borders.

The UK Airprox Board – which investigates such near-misses – said an accident near Coldstream, Berwickshire, had only been avoided ‘largely by providence’.

It rated the collision risk as ‘B’, meaning ‘safety was not assured’.

Three Hawks and two Typhoons were flying low level at more than 450mph at the time of the incident on April 25. The board praised a Typhoon pilot who called out a warning to his leader, resulting in the pair making a turn to the left.

The report said his ‘adept radar interpretation and acute lookout skills’ had prevented ‘what could easily have resulted in far graver circumstances’.

New collision warning systems are now to be fitted on Hawks and Typhoons.