By Railfan & Railroad Staff

The world’s most famous steam locomotive has returned to the main line following a “shunting incident” at a Scottish heritage railway that sent two people to local hospitals last month. 

On September 29, London North Eastern Railway 4-6-2 4472, better known as the Flying Scotsman, was involved in a heavy coupling incident at the Strathspey Railway in Scotland. The locomotive collided with a passenger train as it tried to couple up to it for an excursion. Two people were sent to the hospital with minor injuries. British authorities are investigating the incident. The locomotive’s owner, the National Railway Museum, announced shortly after the incident that it would be taken out of service to ensure it was not damaged. 

On Friday, October 6, the museum announced that a full inspection had been conducted and 4472 was “fit for main line operation.” It was then able to lead excursions on October 7 and 8. 

“The investigation was carried out by an independent expert on behalf of Strathspey Railway, and the NRM’s collections and rail operations teams. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has confirmed it does not require the locomotive as part of its ongoing inquiries,” wrote the National Railway Museum on X, the social media formally known as Twitter. “The safety of passengers and the public remains the highest priority and the independent investigation into the circumstances of the shunting incident involving Flying Scotsman on Friday 29 September will continue.”

NRM has been celebrating the famous locomotive’s 100th birthday this year with a series of main line excursions and tours. It will be on display at the museum later this month.