Fighter Jets Flying ‘Supersonic’ Caused Large Explosion Sound
Written by HFM News on 4th March 2023
A massive explosion sound heard in Market Harborough and across the region was caused by RAF Typhoon fighter jets travelling faster than the speed of sound.
The aircraft created a ‘sonic boom’ after being launched from RAF Coningby in Lincolnshire, when communication was lost with a plane in the London area following a radio failure.
The Royal Air Force said: “Typhoon aircraft from Royal Air Force Coningsby offered assistance to a civilian aircraft and were authorised to fly supersonic earlier today.”
The plane, with two people on board, later landed safely after being escorted to Stansted Airport in Essex, with Police confirming the loss of contact was due to an equipment malfunction.
The explosion-like sound was heard just after midday, with people reporting houses shaking, items falling off shelves and their pets ‘going crazy’.
The noise was captured on a CCTV system in Market Harborough:
Both Leicestershire and Northamptonshire Police received numerous calls, but quickly released statements saying there was no need for concern.
Phil Knowles told HFM he heard the boom at his home near Market Harborough:
Typhoon jet at RAF Coningby Pic: Dani Rust
A sonic boom is caused when planes fly faster than the speed of sound, which at ground level is around 761mph.
When travelling at this speed, also known as Mach 1, the aircraft displaces the air and creates pressure waves that become compressed and are then released in a shock wave.
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Police said : “We have received numerous calls in relation to a large explosion sound heard from various parts of the city and county.
“We like to reassure you that there is no concern however thank you for your immediate response to us.”
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service also received calls, saying a plane breaking the sound barrier was the most likely cause.
The explosion sound was also heard in parts of Northamptonshire and Northants Police said: “Police and Fire services in Northamptonshire have received numerous calls in relation to a large explosion sound heard from various parts of the county.
“We would like to reassure people there is no concern, but thank you for contacting us.”
