European skies on high alert after hoax bomb threats this week – Europe live

A wave of hoax bomb threats has put airlines and airports across Europe on high alert, with at least 35 aircraft searched or diverted this week. French authorities are examining an Aer Lingus flight’s diversion to a military base, including the pilot’s reported initial insistence on landing at a civilian airport.

Prosecutor Rémi Coutin said the pilot and co-pilot would be questioned and that charges could follow if the pilot refused to cooperate; two French fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the plane. Aer Lingus said the crew acted professionally and prioritised passenger safety. Separately, Belgium’s prime minister was due to meet the king after budget talks collapsed, while Pope Leo began his first overseas trip since lung surgery.