A British Airways flight aborted take off after airport authorities received an email warning of a bomb threat just seconds before leaving for Heathrow.
Flight BA158 from Bermuda to London was abandoned after the pilot issued a squawk 7700 alert – air code for an emergency – while traffic control cancelled the plane’s final take-off clearance.
On Sunday evening, authorities received an email warning that the specific BA flight had been targeted.
Passengers were immediately evacuated as police and anti-terror officers attended.
A British Airways flight aborted take off after airport authorities received an email warning of a bomb threat just seconds before leaving for Heathrow
PA
The flight was forced to cancel over fears that a bomb had been smuggled onto the jet.
Roads within a six mile perimeter of the airport were closed as part of the protocol.
“No-one was taking any chances. BA’s own jet was the subject of a targeted bomb threat, according to the email received by authorities,” a source told The Sun.
“There was nothing bosses could do but abort take-off. Passengers were in shock but relieved that protocol was followed.”
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The flight was due to depart at 8.50pm but was on the runway and waiting for take-off when officials received the bomb threat at 9.30pm.
Passengers were unable to fly again later on Sunday evening after emergency services issued an all clear.
Some were forced to sleep on airport floors ahead of another planned flight due to a hotel shortage in Bermuda – caused by a sailing grand prix.
British Airways said: “The safety of our customers and colleagues is always our highest priority and we followed our standard procedures to disembark the aircraft.
The flight was forced to cancel over fears that a bomb had been smuggled onto the jet
Anthony Upton/PA Wire/PA Images
“Our teams are caring for our customers and supporting the crew as we work to get them on their way as soon as possible.”
A Bermuda Airport spokesman added: “Shortly before 9.30pm on Sunday, May 5, 2024, police were notified by staff at the LF Wade International Airport of a bomb threat that was received via email.
“Staff also advised that emergency landing protocols had been initiated at the airport.”
