A bomb alert involving a Wizz Air flight from Larnaca to Rome ended on Friday after security checks were completed, with passengers expected to begin boarding the aircraft again for departure, CNA has learned. The aircraft, carrying around 190 passengers, had earlier been grounded and evacuated after a fax message warned that a bomb had been placed in a piece of luggage on board and would explode within 20 minutes.
Flight grounded and passengers evacuated
The flight had been due to depart Larnaca Airport at 11:10. Passengers were taken back into the terminal, while the aircraft and luggage underwent extensive security checks under established procedures.
Minister confirms threat reached multiple agencies
Transport, Communications and Works Minister Evie Tsolaki told CNA that the threatening fax had been received "not only by the Department of Civil Aviation, but also by other government services and the Police," adding that the same message had been sent to all recipients. "There are protocols and procedures which have been followed from the first moment," she said, noting that the crisis plan had been activated and the Crisis Management Committee was handling the situation at the airport.
Bomb disposal teams deployed
Police officers, bomb disposal experts and specially trained dogs were deployed as part of the operation. Police said the threat had made it necessary to ground the aircraft while the information was assessed and investigated, with all prescribed protocols activated.
Checks completed, alert lifted
The security procedures were completed and the alert had been lifted after noon, while passengers were expected to board the aircraft again so that the flight could depart for Rome.
Wizz Air response
Wizz Air confirmed that the Rome-bound flight was operated by the airline and said it was following all established safety and security protocols and cooperating fully with the local authorities. "The safety and security of our passengers, crew and aircraft remain Wizz Air's priority," the airline said.
