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World

Bomb threats divert at least 19 passenger flights across Europe

For the second time this week, airlines made unplanned or escorted landings after a wave of threats officials call malicious hoaxes.

BrieflyTold Desk · · 1 min brief

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The brief

  • ■At least 18-19 flights affected on Thursday, after similar disruption on Tuesday
  • ■Some flights were escorted by military jets
  • ■No threat has proven genuine; officials suspect 'hybrid attack' tactics

Why it matters

Even hoax threats ground planes, cost airlines millions and test how Europe responds to pressure short of open attack.

Airlines across Europe received a fresh series of bomb threats on Thursday morning, forcing unplanned and military-escorted landings. The EU transport commissioner said it was too early to say whether the threats to 19 flights were linked.

The UK transport secretary described the incidents as 'malicious hoax threats'. No country has attributed blame, but European officials have recently accused Russia and Iran of hybrid attacks and sabotage — accusations both countries deny.

Travelers are advised to expect delays and extra security checks while investigators trace the source of the threats.

Sources

  • The Guardian
  • BBC News
  • Reuters

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