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At least 10 passenger flights across Europe were targeted by bomb threats on Thursday, prompting emergency landings, flight diversions and extensive security checks at several airports.
The threats affected flights operated by several airlines, including Ryanair, Aer Lingus, Finnair, Wizz Air and LOT Polish Airlines, disrupting air travel across multiple European countries.
An Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to Rome was diverted to a French military airbase, where passengers and crew were evacuated as bomb disposal teams inspected the aircraft. The flight was carrying 151 passengers and six crew members.
Three Ryanair flights bound for Sofia, Bulgaria, were also affected.
Two flights from Copenhagen and Madrid landed at Sofia airport, while another flight from London was diverted to Plovdiv. Fighter jets were deployed to escort the aircraft.
A Finnair flight from Helsinki to Rome was escorted by Italian fighter jets before landing safely.
Other affected flights faced diversions and security inspections in Vienna, Prague and other European cities.
Authorities said initial inspections found no explosives or suspicious materials on the affected aircraft.
All passengers and crew members were reported safe.
The threats also prompted security operations at several airports, with some flights delayed and airport facilities temporarily affected.
The latest incidents came just two days after similar bomb threats targeted at least seven flights across Europe, leading to aircraft searches, diversions and emergency security measures.
Investigators have yet to establish whether the threats were part of a coordinated campaign or identify those responsible.
European authorities are continuing their investigations amid growing concerns over aviation security.
Photo: Reuters