Christchurch, Jan 4 (THAINDIAN NEWS) A New Zealand pilot thought he was dreaming when he spotted a “flying shark” during a flight on the 26th of December. Alarmed by the unusual sight, the pilot radioed the control room at the Christchurch International Airport but no other passenger or crew member on the flight saw the image.

It has been determined that what the pilot saw was actually a shark but not the real one. Helium-filled sharks are common Christmas gifts but they are seldomly used outdoors. With the ability to be controlled with remote device, the toy can be manipulated from about 15 meters away.

The plane was making a descend to the airport when the incident happened. Airport security has confirmed the report with New Zealand Air Line Pilots’ Association’s president Mr. Glen Kenny saying that the events could pose danger.

According to him, the balloon has the ability to startle pilots which might pose danger to the safety of the entire flight. However the balloon cannot stop the engine on an airline but he said it has the capacity to do some damage.

Air Swimmers are often sold at US$99 each. They are among the most popular Christmas gifts in New Zealand.