Spanish authorities have taken control of a passenger aircraft at Barcelona's El Prat Airport following a serious security alert. The Turkish Airlines jet was escorted to the ground by military aircraft after reports of a threat onboard.
Military Escort Over the Mediterranean
The aircraft, operating a scheduled service from Istanbul Airport, became the focus of a major security operation as it crossed into European airspace. Spanish and French fighter jets were scrambled to escort the plane over the Mediterranean Sea. Aviation trackers reported the aircraft circling multiple times before it was cleared for its eventual landing in Barcelona just before 11am local time.
Police Operation on the Ground
Upon touchdown, the plane was immediately directed to a remote area of the airfield where it was surrounded by a large contingent of Spanish police and emergency vehicles. Officers boarded the aircraft soon after its arrival to assess the situation and secure the passengers and crew. Local media confirmed that there were 148 passengers and seven crew members onboard during the incident. All remained on the aircraft as the police operation commenced.
Ongoing Security Response
The nature of the specific 'onboard threat' has not been officially disclosed by authorities at this early stage. The response involved multiple agencies, highlighting the high level of concern. The incident caused significant disruption at El Prat, one of Spain's busiest international hubs. Security protocols for threats to civil aviation, which involve close coordination between civilian and military authorities, were swiftly activated. An investigation into the source and credibility of the threat is now underway.
