A British Airways flight to destination London Heathrow was the subject of a chilling bomb threat, with the pilot forced to abort take-off on the runway in terrifying scenes Bermuda Airport.
Air traffic controllers stationed on the beautiful holiday island forced the crew to abandon take-off just seconds before they were due to take to the air. The captain of the Boeing 770-200ER had given a 7700 signal to indicate that there was an emergency, which resulted in the final take-off clearance not being given.
Police and counter-terrorism officers rushed to the runway where flight BA158 left – minutes after Bermuda Airport bosses received an email warning that a bomb was on board this particular flight. All roads within ten kilometers of the airport were closed due to the panic.
A source said The sun: “No one took any risks. BA's own plane was the subject of a targeted bomb threat, according to the email received by authorities. There was no other option than to abort the start.
“Passengers were in shock, but relieved that protocol was followed.”
The flight was scheduled to depart at 8:50 PM but was delayed by 42 minutes, with officials receiving the threat at 9:30 PM, just two minutes before the expected take-off.
Tourists were forced to sleep on the floor at the international airport as passengers discovered there were no hotel rooms available on the island due to a sailing Grand Prix.
Meanwhile, both the pilots and crew were at full capacity due to the delay and were unable to fly after the police issued an all-clear.
A British Airways spokesperson said: “The safety of our customers and colleagues is always our top priority and we followed our standard procedures for disembarking. Our teams are looking after our customers and supporting the crew as we work to get them on their way as quickly as possible.”
A spokesperson for Bermuda Airport added: “Shortly before 9.30pm on Sunday 5 May 2024, police were notified by LF Wade International Airport staff of a bomb threat received via email.
“The staff also advised that emergency landing protocols had been established at the airport.”