Bomb threats hit European flights for third day

At least 14 flights across Europe faced hoax bomb threats for a third consecutive day on Thursday (November 5), prompting fighter jets from Italy, France and Bulgaria to scramble and forcing three flights to divert.

The threats mainly targeted low-cost airlines and flights to and from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Italy. Ryanair was among the hardest-hit carriers, with at least seven of its flights targeted this week.

Among the affected flights, an Aer Lingus service from Dublin to Rome was diverted to a French military base, while a Finnair flight from Helsinki to Rome was escorted by an Italian fighter jet. Three Ryanair flights bound for Sofia were also targeted, with one diverted to Plovdiv.

All affected aircraft landed safely, and inspections found no explosives. More than 20 hoax threats have been reported across Europe this week, according to AFP.

The origin and motives behind the threats remain unknown. European authorities have raised concerns over a broader rise in hybrid attacks, including sabotage, cyberattacks and drone incidents.