European airlines and airports on heightened alert after a series of hoax bomb threats
A wave of hoax bomb threats this week forced searches or diversions of at least 35 flights across Europe, prompting security alerts at multiple airports.
Airlines and airports in several European countries increased security measures after a series of hoax bomb threats targeted commercial flights, leading to the search or diversion of at least 35 aircraft.
A Ryanair flight from Rome to Lisbon (FR8196) was assessed following a threat, with authorities working to verify its credibility, according to CNN Portugal.
A Wizz Air flight from Prague to Rome (W46136) was diverted to Venice after a bomb threat, turning around near Ferrara before landing safely.
In Ireland, bomb threats sent to media organisations caused evacuations and temporary shutdowns at RTÉ Radio One and other outlets. Police with sniffer dogs remained on site while staff awaited clearance to resume broadcasting.
Czech police said they were investigating threats aimed at aircraft arriving at and departing from Prague Airport, noting that security measures were in place with minimal impact on operations.
Copenhagen police confirmed a presence at the airport after receiving threats directed at air traffic, stating that no danger to passengers had been identified.
In France, an Aer Lingus pilot who diverted a Dublin-Rome flight to the Évreux military base faced questioning after initially refusing to land where instructed, prompting the military to scramble fighter jets. Aer Lingus said the crew acted "impeccably and thoroughly professional" throughout the incident.
European officials continue to discuss coordination of diplomatic efforts on Ukraine, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticizing the fragmented format of talks and European Council President António Costa pledging to address the issue at an upcoming EU summit.