Drone strikes British Airways flight carrying 132 passengers near Heathrow airport

A British Airways flight has been struck by a drone on approach to Heathrow Airport. The pilot reported that an object had hit the Airbus A320, which took off in Geneva, as it came in to land at the London airport at about 12:50 BST.

The flight which was carrying 132 passengers and five crew on board landed safely at Heathrow Terminal 5. Initial inquiries determined that an object - believed to be a drone - struck the front of the plane as it approached the airport.

British Airways said the aircraft was examined by engineers and cleared for its next flight following the incident. "Our aircraft landed safely, was fully examined by our engineers and it was cleared to operate its next flight. Safety and security are always our first priority and we will give the police every assistance with their investigation."

Metropolitan police officers at Heathrow tweeted: "Officers are currently speaking to a pilot who has reported a drone flying very close to his aircraft on approach to Heathrow. This is dangerous, it is also a crime. Please be aware of the rules before you start flying a drone."

No arrests have been made and inquiries are continuing Sky News reports.