Title: Threat Disrupts Air Traffic at Hamburg Airport, Resumes After Police Operation
Date: October 9, 2023
BERLIN – Air traffic at Germany’s Hamburg airport was temporarily halted on Monday after a police operation was conducted in response to a threat against a plane from Tehran. However, operations have now resumed, according to a spokesperson.
The incident began when a federal police spokesperson confirmed that officers had received a threat of an attack via email. Consequently, a plane carrying 198 passengers from Tehran was searched upon its arrival at the Hamburg airport.
To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members, the German air force escorted the plane into German airspace from the east of Berlin due to a bomb threat. This precautionary measure aimed to mitigate any potential risks.
In accordance with established protocols, police personnel interviewed the passengers, a standard procedure when a threat is deemed serious. The authorities took every necessary step to ensure that all possible risks were thoroughly assessed.
Due to the involvement of the airport fire brigade in the search, no takeoffs or landings were possible during the operation. Airport authorities worked diligently to maintain the safety and security of all individuals present at the airport.
Coincidentally, this incident occurred on the first day of a special meeting between the German and French governments held in Hamburg. Both German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron were in attendance at the meeting.
As investigations continue, authorities have not released any further information regarding the nature of the threat or potential suspects involved. However, the resumption of air traffic indicates that the situation has been thoroughly assessed and is now believed to be resolved.
Reporting by Rachel More and Miranda Murray; Editing by Matthias Williams and Toby Chopra