US Air Force B-52 bomber sends ’emergency distress signal’ while flying over Gloucestershire

• A UK B-52 bomber transmitted a ‘squawk code 770’ while above Tewkesbury, UK
• Two of the giant planes were seen flying over central Gloucester earlier today
• It is not clear what the incident was but planes regularly send out distress signals

A US Air Force B-52 bomber has sent out a distress signal after a mid-air emergency over Gloucestershire, it has been reported. 

The aircraft transmitted a ‘squawk code 770, indicating general emergency, near Tewkesbury, UK’, according to FlightRadar 24.

It is not clear what the incident was but planes regularly send out emergency distress signals for even minor problems.  

The aircraft transmitted a ‘squawk code 770, indicating general emergency, near Tewkesbury, UK’, according to FlightRadar 24 (file image)

Two of the giant planes flew over central Gloucester, towards Hartpury, Ashleworth and Tewkesbury, before coming back round over Up Hatherley, Shurdington, Brockworth Hucclecote and Barnwood. 

They were Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, with the identities BALOO51 and BALOO52 and flying at an altitude of over 9,000 feet. 

The nuclear-capable planes can each deliver 30 tons of bombs, missiles and mines. They’re also protected by a remote control cannon. 

There are six of the planes based at RAF Fairford in the Cotswolds. 

More to follow.  

Source: Read Full Article