RAF says two typhoon fighter jets have escorted a civilian aircraft to London Stansted Airport.
Not a sight you see everyday. Ryanair flight being tailed by a fighter plane. Something going on? Hope all is well over Suffolk pic.twitter.com/4yFTom2lMF
— Andy Longhurst (@AndyLonghurstUK)
An RAF spokesperson told the Mirror: “The RAF can confirm quick reaction alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this morning from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft.
Ryanair spokesman said: “This flight from Kaunas to London Luton diverted to London Stansted in line with procedures after Lithuanian authorities received a suspected hoax security alert.
“The aircraft landed normally at Stansted and customers will be transferred to Luton by coach when cleared to do so.”
An Essex Police spokesman said: “A Ryanair flight from Kaunas, Lithuania to Luton Airport has been diverted to Stansted Airport following reports of a security alert.
“The plane landed safely at around 8.55am and passengers are being safely brought off.
“The runway was closed for a short time but has now re-opened. Police are on scene and enquiries are ongoing.”
"sonic boom" heard in North Essex caused by RAF planes escorting plane to – apparent security hoax pic.twitter.com/H9uhSTWEL7
— Radio Essex Newsroom (@radioessexnews)
Stansted Airport confirmed that plane “landed safely with police in attendance”.
The RAF confirmed said two quick-reaction Typhoon aircraft were launched from RAF Coningsby to escort the aircraft.
A spokesman said: “The RAF can confirm Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this morning from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft. The aircraft was safely escorted to Stansted airport.
“The Typhoon aircraft were authorised to transit at supersonic speed for operational reasons; any inconvenience caused to local residents is regretted.”
