False Bomb Threats Disrupt More Than 30 Flights Across Europe as Fighter Jets Escort Civilian Aircraft

Flights diverted to alternative airports and security inspections carried out across several countries, with no explosives found as investigations continue into the source of the threats.

A wave of false bomb threats disrupted more than 30 flights across Europe during the first week of November 2026, including at least 27 flights on Thursday, November 5, prompting aircraft diversions, military fighter jet escorts and precautionary security inspections.

The threats affected flights operating in France, Italy, Bulgaria, Poland, the Czech Republic, Spain and other European countries. Extensive security checks found no explosives.

Among the most notable incidents was the diversion of an Aer Lingus flight travelling from Dublin to Rome to Évreux military airbase in France. The aircraft was escorted by French fighter jets before landing safely.

In Bulgaria, military fighter jets escorted three Ryanair aircraft travelling to Sofia from London, Madrid and Copenhagen. The London flight was diverted to Plovdiv Airport.

The threats also affected flights operated by Finnair, Wizz Air, Aegean Airlines and LOT Polish Airlines, resulting in security inspections and delays to some services.

European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas confirmed that an EU-level aviation security information-sharing mechanism had been activated.

He cautioned that it was too early to determine whether the incidents were connected.

Authorities have not yet identified those responsible for issuing the threats, while security inspections have revealed no explosive materials.

Although no explosives were discovered, false security alerts can cause significant operational disruptions, including flight delays, diversions and missed connections.

Passengers travelling through European airports are advised to monitor airline notifications, verify their flight status before heading to the airport and rely on official information during any disruption.