A Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong to London briefly triggered a NATO security response after it lost contact with air traffic control while flying over Romanian airspace. The incident prompted Hungarian fighter jets to scramble under the alliance’s quick reaction alert system before communication with the aircraft was restored.
The flight was operating from Hong Kong to London Heathrow on Saturday using an Airbus A350-1000. During the journey, the aircraft temporarily failed to establish contact with Romanian civil air traffic control, leading authorities to activate standard security procedures.
NATO’s quick reaction alert system was launched after the aircraft stopped communicating with controllers. As part of the response, Hungarian fighter jets were sent to intercept the plane and identify the situation.
Cathay Pacific confirmed the incident on Wednesday and said an investigation is now underway. The airline said the safety of the aircraft, passengers, and crew was never at risk during the event.
The carrier added that the temporary communication issue did not affect the safe operation of the flight. Officials have not released details about what caused the loss of contact or how long communication was interrupted.
Air traffic authorities closely monitor aircraft flying through European airspace. When an aircraft fails to respond to air traffic control, standard international safety procedures require military aircraft to investigate if necessary.
These interceptions are carried out to verify the aircraft’s identity, assess the situation, and help restore communication when possible. Such responses are precautionary and are designed to protect both civil aviation and public safety.
The Airbus A350-1000 later continued its journey to London after communication was re-established. No emergency landing was required, and the flight completed its scheduled route without further reported problems.
Authorities have not announced any additional action while the investigation continues. Aviation officials are expected to review communication records and flight data to determine why contact with Romanian air traffic control was temporarily lost.
The incident highlights the importance of continuous communication between aircraft and air traffic controllers, especially on international routes crossing multiple countries. Although the temporary loss of contact triggered a military response, Cathay Pacific said the aircraft remained safe throughout the flight, and investigators are now working to determine the cause of the communication disruption.
