Wave of bomb threats disrupts European flights; Rome-bound plane diverted to military base

ÉVREUX — A new wave of bomb threats has disrupted flights across Europe, forcing several aircraft to divert or land under heightened security measures.

An Aer Lingus flight traveling from Dublin to Rome was diverted to a French military airbase in Évreux. All 115 passengers and six crew members were safely evacuated, and bomb disposal specialists were deployed to inspect the aircraft.

Similar threats affected flights involving Poland, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Italy, Austria and Romania. In Bulgaria, fighter jets escorted one of the affected aircraft.

British authorities believe the incidents are part of a series of malicious hoax threats. So far, no explosives have been discovered aboard the inspected aircraft.

At least seven European flights were affected by similar threats earlier in the week. Investigations are continuing to determine who is responsible. Although European officials have previously warned about hybrid warfare and sabotage, no confirmed connection between these particular threats and any country or organization has been established.