European air traffic targeted by several new threats after a week of hoaxes

European air traffic has been on high alert this week as bomb threats have targeted several flights, causing significant disruption. The latest threats, reported on Friday, follow a string of hoaxes that began earlier in the week, affecting multiple airlines and countries across Europe. No suspicious items were found, and no one was injured, but the incidents have raised concern as Europe grapples with a series of recent disruptions.

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu’s office reported four new bomb threats against aircraft flying over French territory. The planes landed safely, and bomb disposal experts conducted inspections. A flight from Prague to Bucharest operated by Romanian carrier Tarom also received a bomb threat, but it landed at its intended destination. Portuguese police informed of a threat targeting a Ryanair flight traveling from Lisbon to Rome, carrying out a security inspection once the aircraft landed in Lisbon. Passengers and luggage scheduled to travel to Rome underwent additional security screening before boarding.

The Context: A Week of Disruptions

The current wave of threats arrives amidst a broader climate of unease across Europe. Just weeks prior, several countries experienced attacks on supermarket refrigeration systems, causing significant food spoilage and economic losses. These incidents, coupled with increasing reports of drone incursions near airports and sensitive infrastructure, have heightened anxieties about potential instability and unconventional warfare tactics. Authorities are particularly wary given the ongoing geopolitical tensions, especially concerning Russia’s potential involvement in so-called hybrid threats—actions that blend disinformation campaigns with disruptive physical attacks.

What Happened

Police in Venice said a WizzAir flight from Prague to Rome was diverted to the Italian city after a bomb alert. Passengers were evacuated after the aircraft landed, and authorities were carrying out security checks. The inspections had so far produced negative results, according to police. Air traffic at the airport was temporarily suspended but resumed. Meanwhile, police in Denmark and the Czech Republic both said they investigated threats to air traffic. In the Danish capital, Copenhagen, police said they went to the airport for a second consecutive day “in connection with threats directed at air traffic” as a precautionary measure. They said they assessed that there had been no danger to passengers or to others at the airport, and that air traffic was proceeding safely and without disruption. Czech police also said they were again dealing with threats against planes on Friday, taking necessary security measures in cooperation with Prague’s Vaclav Havel Airport that had “a minimal impact on the normal operations at the airport.”

A total of nine flights were threatened — arriving flights from Denmark, Spain, and Britain, and departing flights to the Netherlands, Cyprus, Romania, Italy, and Britain. More than two dozen flights were affected by threats earlier in the week, with some diverted as authorities scrambled to rule out any danger. Tow truck driver shot in Logan Square, Chicago police say. E-bike driver killed in North Side crash, Chicago police say. Family remembers Gary man killed days before birthday in crash involving off-duty police officer

The Psychological Impact and Broader Concerns

Beyond the immediate operational disruptions, the threats are taking a toll on passenger confidence and creating a climate of fear. The fact that these hoaxes are relatively simple to execute—often relying on anonymous emails or phone calls—underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. While authorities have stressed that no credible threats have materialized, the sheer volume of incidents in such a short timeframe is deeply concerning. Experts point to the potential for these hoaxes to be amplified through social media, further fueling anxiety and distrust.

Identifying the Perpetrators

Authorities have not attributed the threats to any group or state actor, and no evidence has emerged linking the hoaxes to a government. An email containing the threat sent Thursday to airport authorities in Rome and reviewed by The Associated Press purported to come from a group describing itself as anti-feminist and claiming it was targeting a “feminist regime.” Another European airport received a threat with similar wording, but it was unclear if it came from the same sender. This claim, whether genuine or a deliberate misdirection, adds another layer of complexity to the investigation. Law enforcement agencies are currently analyzing the language used in the threats, tracing email origins (which can be difficult with sophisticated spoofing techniques), and examining potential links between the various incidents.

Community Reaction

The bomb threats have raised concern among travelers and airport authorities. Irish state broadcaster RTE was evacuated Friday after a bomb threat, and live broadcasts were replaced with pre-recorded programs. Ireland’s police force, An Garda Síochána, said it was “aware of a threat made against media organizations here and in Europe.” It said that it has been liaising with Irish media organizations and the threat will be investigated. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin said the threats to RTE and others “just illustrates how relatively simple it can be to cause disruption and to undermine the normal operation of society through unconventional activities of this kind, which are designed to cause fear and anxiety.” He said there would be a “very significant security operation” in place next week when Dublin hosts meetings of the European Political Community and European Union leaders.

The Aviation Industry Response

Paul Reuter, vice president of the European Cockpit Association, said bomb threats are on pilots’ minds and create unnecessary tension, but crews are prepared to respond professionally. Pilots review procedures with cabin crews, identify airports where they could divert, and may carry extra fuel, he said. Reuter called the use of civil aviation for geopolitical disruption or hoaxes “totally unacceptable.” The European Cockpit Association is working with airlines and regulatory bodies to enhance training and protocols for dealing with such threats. Airlines are also reviewing their security procedures, including increased scrutiny of passenger behavior and baggage handling. The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing security measures with the need for efficient air travel.

What's Next

As the situation continues to unfold, authorities are working to ensure the safety of air travelers and airport operations. The European Cockpit Association has advised pilots to remain vigilant and prepared. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin emphasized the need for robust security measures in the coming weeks. The European Union is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with member states to address any potential threats. Increased collaboration between law enforcement agencies across Europe is expected, as is a renewed focus on cybersecurity and counter-disinformation efforts.

The upcoming meetings of the European Political Community and European Union leaders in Dublin will require heightened security, not only to protect the attendees but also to reassure the public and demonstrate that authorities are in control. The cost of these increased security measures will likely be significant, and there is a risk that the incidents could have a long-term impact on air travel demand.

While the immediate threat has been neutralized, the community is left wondering about the motives behind these hoaxes and their potential impact on air travel. The incident highlights the vulnerability of modern transportation systems and the importance of maintaining robust security measures. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and support local law enforcement efforts to keep air travel safe.