Europe on high alert after hoax bomb threats, at least 35 planes searched or diverted
Airlines and airports across Europe are on high alert after a wave of hoax bomb threats targeted commercial flights this week.
Because of the threats, at least 35 planes have been searched or diverted.
After yesterday's disruptions, authorities will be hoping for a quieter day today. But one of yesterday's incidents remains under closer scrutiny.
An Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to Rome was diverted to the Evreux military base after a bomb threat. The pilot of that flight is now facing scrutiny from the French authorities after reportedly insisting on landing at a civilian airport.
Evreux's public prosecutor, Remi Coutin, told ICI Normandie that the pilot's apparent initial refusal to land where instructed prompted the French military to scramble two fighter jets to intercept the aircraft.
Coutin said the pilot and his co-pilot will be questioned to understand what happened, stressing that he could bring charges for refusing to cooperate with authorities.
In a statement to the Guardian, however, Aer Lingus backed the pilot, saying he and the crew acted impeccably and thoroughly professionally throughout the incident.
The airline also said safety and the care of its passengers is Aer Lingus' top priority, and that this was upheld professionally by the captain and crew in what were very challenging circumstances.
