Bomb hoax at Gatwick Airport

Monday 23rd March 2009

Bomb Hoax causes scare at Gatwick Airport

A plane landing at Gatwick Airport was subject of a bomb hoax after a warning note was found onboard.

The Emirates Boeing 777 from Dubai landed at Gatwick Airport and was greeted by Sussex Police and a Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit who evacuated the passengers and crew before searching the aircraft and luggage for explosive devices.

Sussex Police confirmed that they arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of involvement in a bomb hoax.

Chief Inspector Ed Henriet said: "This was potentially an extremely serious situation and we immediately mounted an emergency response. At all times public safety was the key priority. All the agencies worked together to provide a co-ordinated response and minimise disruption and the airport operated as normal during this time."

"We are very grateful for the calm and understanding response from those directly affected, including the passengers who were on board and those waiting to meet them"

The airport was re-opened shortly afterwards.