Pick of the week

Some of the week's most interesting reports

1 July - 7 July 2002

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BBC News Online presents a round-up of some of the week's more remarkable stories covered by BBC correspondents.

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Crash planes dived to disaster

Wreckage from the planes was spread over a wide area

Investigators believe a passenger jet and a cargo plane were diving to avoid each other when they collided in mid-air over southern Germany. Seventy-one people were killed, many of whom were children and teenagers. The first warning of impending catastrophe was issued only 50 seconds before the crash,

The BBC's Jonathan Charles reports

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Geldof says no to euro

Bob Geldof in the anti-euro film

Former pop star Bob Geldof has joined the campaign to keep the pound. He features in an advert launched by the No campaign to highlight what they say are the dangers of joining the single currency. The advert is to be screened in cinemas nationwide later this month.

The BBC's Mark Mardell reports

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Asia still scarred by crisis

Bangkok

It's five years since the Asian economic crisis began, throwing the fast growing "Tiger Economies" of the region into turmoil, and sending shockwaves across the world. Thailand was first to fall when international speculators forced a massive devaluation of the Thai currency.

The BBC's Evan Davies reports

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US balloonist lands in Australia

Steve Fossett's balloon

US adventurer Steve Fossett has landed his balloon in the Australian outback after a record-breaking around-the-world solo flight. The craft came down near the Australian outback town of Birdsville, in Queensland state, according to a member of his ground crew.

The BBC's Clive Myrie reports

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Shooting at Los Angeles airport

LA airport was closed causing chaos for travellers

At least three people, including the gunman, have been shot dead at Los Angeles International Airport. There is no evidence the attack was an act of terrorism, but the shooting came as US cities were on high alert for possible attacks as Americans celebrate Independence Day.

The BBC's David Willis reports

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