Drone at Manchester airport flew less than 15 metres from Boeing 757 during 'critical phase'

The pilot has said he was 'surprised'

Pilots have warned that the risk of collision between an aircraft and drones is 'unacceptably high' (stock image) (Getty)

A drone was flown just 50ft from a Boeing 757 jet near Manchester Airport during a "critical phase" of its flight.

The pilot of the jet airliner "expressed his surprise" after spotting the object shortly after take-off, the UK Airprox Board (UKAB) said in a near-miss report.

He was carrying out a right turn at an altitude of 1,500 feet - a "critical phase of flight" - when the incident occurred.

The report states that the drone was "extremely close to the aircraft", passing just 50ft above and 100ft to the left.

Experts "quickly agreed there had been a definite risk of collision" and the incident was put in the most serious risk category.

The latest monthly UKAB meeting examined a total of six near misses between drones and aircraft, including reports from near Heathrow, Glasgow and Newcastle airports.

The British Airline Pilots Association has warned that the risk of collision between an aircraft and drones is "unacceptably high".

Last month a drone was believed to have hit a British Airways flight landing at Heathrow, although it later emerged it may have been a plastic bag.

Drone operators must keep their craft away from aircraft and airfields, and not fly above 400 feet.

They are also barred from flying drones with cameras within 50 metres of people, vehicles or buildings, or over congested areas or large gatherings such as concerts and sports events.

In the Queen's Speech it was announced that the Government will introduce new regulations on drones in a Modern Transport Bill.

PA