A bomb threat at Larnaca Airport triggered security protocols and grounded a flight to Rome after a message in English claimed that a bomb was inside luggage on the aircraft and would explode within 20 minutes, according to information obtained by the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).
The flight, operated by Wizz Air, was carrying approximately 190 passengers and was scheduled to depart for Rome at 11:10.
The threat prompted authorities to activate the required security procedures, while passengers were instructed to leave the aircraft.
Passengers and luggage undergo checks
All passengers disembarked from the aircraft with their personal belongings and returned to the airport terminal for renewed security checks.
Meanwhile, the luggage inside the aircraft began to be unloaded and is being inspected by specially trained sniffer dogs.
Once this inspection is completed, the luggage is expected to undergo another screening using X-ray equipment.
The aircraft cabin will also be searched as part of the security procedures.
If all checks are completed and the threat is determined not to be genuine, passengers are expected to go through the boarding process again.
The security alert has since ended.
Wizz Air statement
Wizz Air confirmed that it is following all established safety and security protocols and is cooperating fully with the local competent authorities.
“The safety and security of our passengers, crew and aircraft remain Wizz Air’s priority,” the airline said.
Also read: Larnaca Airport issues alert following bomb report
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