An alert was raised at Larnaca Airport after authorities received information warning of a bomb on board a flight bound for Italy, on Friday, Sept. 11.
The airline reportedly requested emergency screening of passengers after being notified of a possible explosive device on the aircraft. News reports indicate the airline asked passengers aboard the aircraft, which was due to take off for Italy, to disembark so a check could be carried out.
Investigation under way
Authorities are assessing the information and carrying out their investigation, with the airport area cordoned off as a precaution. A police spokesperson confirmed to the Cyprus Mail that an incident had occurred at the airport, though police were still awaiting further details. According to initial reports, the threat was conveyed by fax, prompting security services to immediately activate standard emergency protocols.
Passengers taken off the plane
Passengers on the flight had already boarded the aircraft when the threat came to light. They were required to disembark so the plane could be re-inspected, and the investigation by the relevant authorities remains ongoing. No further details have yet been released, and it is not yet known whether the threat will prove genuine or a hoax.
