35 flights searched: hoax bomb threats repeatedly disrupt flights across Europe this week; here is what we know
Flights affected by threats
At least 35 flights were diverted or searched after separate bomb threats on Tuesday and Thursday. The warnings caused knock-on effects for travellers, but every affected plane landed safely and no explosive devices were found.
Officials warn of disruption
Ireland’s taoiseach, Micheál Martin, told RTÉ Radio 1 the threats had to be taken seriously. He said they were intended to spread fear and anxiety. Martin said the incidents showed how relatively simple it was to disrupt society’s normal operations. European security agencies would work to identify those responsible and hold them accountable, he said.
Possible pattern under review
Spain’s foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, said authorities needed more time to identify those behind the threats. He said the incidents appeared to follow a pattern.
Key points
- At least 35 flights were diverted or searched after threats on Tuesday and Thursday.
- All affected planes landed safely, and searches found no explosives.
- The affected flights were 0.0674% of Europe’s 26,709 scheduled flights on Friday.
- Officials said the incidents appeared patterned, but identifying those responsible would take more time.