World · Malaysia Bureau
Wave of bomb hoaxes disrupts European flights, budget carriers targeted
European aviation faced fresh disruptions as a series of false bomb threats forced multiple commercial aircraft to divert or land unexpectedly. The hoaxes predominantly affected budget carriers operating routes to and from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Italy.
LSN Malaysia ·
A coordinated wave of bomb threats struck European commercial aviation on Thursday, with approximately 20 incidents reported across various flights throughout the day. The hoaxes disproportionately targeted low-cost carriers, forcing airlines to implement emergency protocols and divert aircraft to nearest suitable airports.
Flights connecting Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Italy were among the primary targets of the false threats, creating significant disruption across Central and Southern European airspace. Authorities responded to each threat with standard security procedures, including emergency landings and passenger evacuations where necessary.
The incidents underscore ongoing vulnerabilities in aviation security, despite enhanced screening measures implemented across European airports in recent years. While no credible explosive devices were discovered during any of the incidents, each threat required full investigative response and operational disruption.
European aviation authorities did not immediately attribute the hoaxes to any specific group or individual. Investigations into the coordinated nature of Thursday's threats were ongoing as authorities sought to identify those responsible for the disruptions.