Bomb scare alerts disrupt air travel across Europe

A wave of hoax bomb threats disrupted nearly 30 passenger flights across Europe on Thursday, forcing unplanned landings and fighter jet escorts.

Countries including Spain, France, Bulgaria, Poland, Denmark, and Romania handled various incidents.

In Spain, three emailed threats arrived within 20 minutes targeting Air Europa and Iberia flights. 

French jets intercepted an Aer Lingus flight after the pilot failed to cooperate, while Bulgaria escorted three airliners.

In Italy, an email from the “fighters of the Male State” alleged devices on flights from Helsinki and Dublin that would explode in 60 minutes.

The “Male State” group was banned in Russia in 2016, and founder Vladislav Pozdnyakov denied involvement in the hoaxes.

The fake threats and the dramatic escalation follow similar claims earlier in the week, when at least seven flights and a cruise ship were targeted.

No government has confirmed who is responsible, though European officials previously pointed to Russia and Iran, both of which deny involvement.

The airlines affected include EasyJet, Finnair, LOT, Wizz Air, Ryanair and Air Serbia. All continue to operate under heightened safety assessments.