Flying Scotsman undergoes safety checks after Highland Railway station collision

Safety checks are being conducted on the renowned Flying Scotsman train following its involvement in a low-speed collision at a railway station in the Highlands. Two individuals were hospitalized after a shunting incident involving the Flying Scotsman and the Royal Scotsman train at Aviemore on Friday. The collision led to the withdrawal of the world-famous locomotive from its scheduled passenger trips over the weekend, pending a comprehensive safety inspection on Monday.

Strathspey Steam Railway, the operator, issued a statement, saying, "The Flying Scotsman locomotive will not haul any trains this weekend. We ask for your understanding in what has been a difficult situation as we attempt to recover the position safely with third parties."

A man and a woman who sustained minor injuries in the incident were taken to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness but have since been released. Additional individuals at the scene were assessed but did not require medical treatment.

Excursion operators Belmond described the incident as a "shunting incident" that occurred during the coupling of the Flying Scotsman with the Royal Scotsman carriages. At the time, the carriages were stationary on the Strathspey Railway line. Belmond assured that all passengers on board during the incident were safe and provided alternative travel arrangements.

A full investigation is underway, with engineers on-site to assess the damage in detail. Belmond expressed gratitude to the crew and emergency services for their swift response and commitment to passenger safety.

Police Scotland is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, and British Transport Police are collaborating with them on the inquiry.

The Flying Scotsman locomotive, newly restored and unveiled last year to celebrate its centenary, has a storied history. Built in 1923 in Doncaster, it now belongs to the National Railway Museum in York. It was the first locomotive in the UK to officially reach 100mph and the pioneer of non-stop service from London to Edinburgh.

Operated by the National Railway Museum and maintained by Riley & Son (E) Ltd, based in Heywood, Greater Manchester, the locomotive is currently touring railway stations across the UK as part of its centenary celebration, including visits to the National Railway Museum.