Intense Light Observed in Flight

Summary

A British European Airways (BEA) pilot reported an intense light during a flight from Moscow to London in September 1976. While flying at around 9,900 meters, apparently within what seems to be Lithuanian territory, he observed a blinding, yellowish light resembling a sodium vapor lamp. The light remained stationary, approximately 16 to 24 kilometers from the aircraft’s path and about 1,500 to 1,800 meters above a lower cloud layer. Its intensity was so high that it could not be viewed directly and illuminated the top of the cloud layer with a glowing cast.

The pilot was so concerned that he used the aircraft's intercom to inform the crew and contacted Soviet authorities for identification. However, the authorities responded negatively, suggesting he should not ask questions. The light remained visible for 15 to 25 minutes until the aircraft moved away from its position. This case is notable for the official reaction and the detailed description of a phenomenon with no clear explanation.