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Qatar Airways Flight Escorted to MAN Airport by Fighter Jet

ByAdam

Qatar Airways Flight Escorted to Airport by Fighter JetA Qatar Airways flight has landed at Manchester Airport after being escorted by a RAF fighter jet.

The plane, believed to be Qatar Airways Flight QR023 from Doha, was escorted by an Royal Air Force Typhoon towards the airport before safely landing.

There were 265 passengers and 13 crew member aboard flight QR023 and it was operated by an Airbus A330.

The plane was transported to the airport after the pilot alarmed authorities of a “possible device” being on board the plane.

There were reports that other planes to Manchester have been redirected while this incident is dealt with, and passengers told that the airport has been closed. The airport has since reopened after being closed for approximately 25 minutes, enough time for the plane to safely land and emergency officials to arrive on the scene to assist and investigate.

Greater Manchester Police released this statement:

“An incoming plane has been escorted into the airport by the Royal Air Force as a result of information received by the pilot about a possible device on board.

“We don’t know how genuine this threat is but it is absolutely vital we deal with the situation as a full emergency.

“As a result people will see the police and other agencies at the airport and on the airfield.

“At this time I would urge them not to be alarmed. Our response will be as comprehensive as it is proportionate with the safety of those on board and in and around the airport our paramount concern.” 

 – Chief Superintendent John O’Hare

We will update this article as new information flows in.

Update 1: Airport has reopened but armed police officers continue to deal with QR plane. Some flights are being redirected to Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

Update 2: Armed police officers have removed a man from the plane, according to passengers.

Update 3: QR crew members aboard the flight confirm that there was a threat of a device being on board the plane.

Update 4: Police have confirmed that a passenger has been escorted off the plane. The rest of the flight is being evacuated safely.

Update 5: Authorities say the passenger was arrested on suspicion of making a hoax bomb threat. Still searching the plane as a precaution.

Lawyer. Immigrant. Frequent Flyer. Scuba Diver. Travel Blogger.
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