http://www.knx1070.com/Southwest-Flight-to-Burbank-Struck-by-Lightning/4528633 Posted: Wednesday, 03 June 2009 3:42PM SW Flight to Burbank Struck by Lightning Returns Safely OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- A Southwest Airlines plane returned safely to Oakland International Airport after it was struck by lightning shortly after takeoff. Airline spokeswoman Marilee McInnis said the 53 passengers aboard Flight 2197 to Burbank were booked on the next flight. McInnis said the pilot turned the plane around after the 6:30 a.m. incident Wednesday because the airline has a maintenance hub in Oakland. The plane passed its safety inspection and was expected to return to service later Wednesday. McInnis said lightning strikes aren't unusual and planes are built to withstand such a jolt. Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you wish to unsubscribe from the AIRLINE List, please send an E-mail to: "listserv@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx". Within the body of the text, only write the following:"SIGNOFF AIRLINE".