ROME/WARSAW, Nov 6 – Nearly 30 passenger flights across Europe were affected by bomb threats on Thursday, November 5. The threats forced several aircraft to change their routes, make unplanned landings or receive military escorts.
The latest incidents have raised concerns about aviation security across the region. They also mark another wave of threats after at least seven flights and a cruise ship received similar warnings earlier this week.
However, authorities have not confirmed who was responsible. No group has provided verified evidence of its involvement.
Several European Countries Affected
The threats affected flights involving several major airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Finnair and LOT.
Airports and authorities in France, Bulgaria, Spain, Romania, Poland, Denmark and other European countries responded to the incidents.
In France, fighter jets intercepted an Aer Lingus flight travelling from Dublin to Rome. The aircraft was escorted to a military airbase in Evreux.
Meanwhile, Bulgaria’s air force escorted three passenger aircraft following bomb warnings. One Ryanair flight travelling from London to Sofia was diverted to Plovdiv.
Other flights also faced security checks and route changes. However, several aircraft landed safely at their intended destinations.
No Confirmed Suspects Behind the Threats
Despite the growing number of incidents, investigators have yet to identify those responsible.
An email sent to several Italian airport and airline contacts claimed that explosives had been placed on incoming flights from Helsinki and Dublin.
The message reportedly used the name of an anti-feminist movement known as Male State.
However, the movement’s founder, Vladislav Pozdnyakov, denied any involvement. He said the group no longer existed and rejected attempts to use its name.
Security experts have raised concerns that the incidents could be part of a wider campaign of disruption.
Some have pointed to possible links with hybrid attacks. These operations can involve digital threats, cyberattacks and other activities designed to disrupt essential services.
However, no connection to a particular country or organisation has been established.
Authorities Investigate Possible Wider Security Threats
The flight disruptions come at a time when several European countries are also dealing with cyberattacks.
Recent incidents have affected supermarket refrigeration systems in several countries. French blood banks have also experienced disruption.
Aviation cybersecurity expert Eliran Almog said repeated threats could disrupt normal operations and test how airlines, airports and security agencies respond.
He warned that attacks against essential services could create financial losses and weaken public confidence.
European authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as investigations move forward.
Passenger Safety Remains the Priority
The repeated threats have caused concern among travellers, particularly those facing unexpected delays and diversions.
Some passengers described seeing emergency vehicles, police officers and anti-terrorism teams surrounding their aircraft after landing.
Airline safety procedures require threats to be assessed before further action is taken. Aircraft may be inspected, diverted or escorted depending on the level of risk.
Although the incidents have disrupted air travel, many affected flights have landed safely.
Authorities have yet to establish whether the latest threats are connected or part of a coordinated operation.
Source : AWANI | Rewritten By Minutesmy