A major security alert was triggered at Leeds Bradford Airport this morning after a man allegedly attempted to hijack an empty passenger jet on the tarmac.
The dramatic incident saw armed police and airport security teams swarm the airfield to detain the individual, who had managed to gain unauthorised access to a stationary Jet2 aircraft. The plane was reportedly empty of passengers and crew at the time, with no one injured during the event.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of intense activity as emergency protocols were activated. The suspect was swiftly apprehended by authorities on the runway, bringing the potentially catastrophic situation to a swift conclusion.
West Yorkshire Police have confirmed a man is in custody following the serious breach of security. An investigation is now underway to determine how the individual accessed the secure airside area and what his motives were.
"A man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to gain access to a stationary aircraft," a police spokesperson stated. "He remains in custody as enquiries continue."
The incident caused significant disruption to flight operations at the airport, with several departures and arrivals delayed or diverted while security checks were conducted. Airport officials have assured the public that normal operations have since resumed and that passenger safety was never compromised.
Jet2 has released a brief statement acknowledging the incident involving one of their aircraft, confirming they are cooperating fully with the ongoing police investigation.
This alarming event raises serious questions about perimeter security at UK regional airports and is likely to prompt a major review of safety protocols at aviation facilities across the country.
