Bomb threats disrupt European air travel as several passenger jets are diverted
Several passenger flights across Europe were diverted or placed under heightened security measures on Thursday following a series of bomb threats, prompting emergency responses from aviation and security authorities.
An Aer Lingus flight travelling from Dublin to Rome was redirected to a military air base in western France after a bomb alert. The aircraft landed safely in Evreux, Normandy, with all 151 passengers and six crew members unharmed. Military bomb disposal teams were deployed to examine the plane.
In Belgium, a LOT Polish Airlines flight from Warsaw also landed safely at Brussels Airport following a suspicious report, although no additional security measures were required.
A Finnair aircraft travelling from Helsinki to Rome was escorted to Fiumicino Airport by Italian Air Force jets after a bomb alert, while another flight from Milan to Rome was also reported to have received a threat.
Meanwhile, Czech police said four aircraft facing bomb threats were preparing to land at Prague Airport.
The incidents follow a series of similar alerts involving European airlines, including LOT, Scandinavian Airlines, Wizz Air and Ryanair, triggering searches, diversions and security escorts.
The latest threats come amid heightened security concerns across Europe, where authorities have warned of growing hybrid threats, including drone incursions and suspected attacks on critical infrastructure.
