A bomb threat on board a Vueling aircraft triggered a major security operation at Gran Canaria Airport, with all passengers evacuated from the plane.
The VY3008 flight, travelling from Barcelona to Gran Canaria, made an emergency landing at around 7.50pm on Monday. Emergency vehicles met the aircraft on the ground, and passengers were evacuated, according to local news outlets.
Security operation at the airport
The aircraft was moved to an isolated section of the airport as bomb disposal teams surrounded the plane and specialists carried out checks. According to RTVC, surveillance continued around the aircraft despite the threat allegedly being a false alarm.
During the operation, several flights scheduled to land in Gran Canaria were circling overhead while awaiting clearance to land. A Binter flight to Lanzarote was reportedly delayed by 20 minutes, although air operator Aena indicated that overall activity continued normally.
Investigation and outcome
Authorities are investigating the source of the threat and attempting to identify those responsible. Making false bomb threats is a criminal offence and can result in serious legal consequences.
The incident concluded without any explosives being discovered. Explosives experts and firefighters inspected the aircraft and its luggage while passengers and crew were kept away from the plane as a precaution.
The operation continued until the threat was ruled out. Passengers were able to collect their belongings and leave the airport at around 10pm.
