Heathrow Airport Security Alert Leads to Arrest on the Runway
Security scare at Heathrow causes major security alert
A day before the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh are due to officially christen the airport's new Terminal 5, a man climbed the security fence and ran in front of a plane. The man was carrying 2 rucksacks, which authorities feared were bombs.
Heathrow Security AlertAccording to BBC reports, the man was surrounded by police and taken into custody. More than 20 emergency vehicles surrounded the scene as sniffer dogs were sent in to sniff the rucksack. The bag was destroyed in a controlled explosion but officers say nothing suspicious was found.
This is the second security breach at Heathrow in recent weeks. Last month Greenpeace protestors walked onto the runway, climbed a Boeing-777 and unfurled a banner protesting airport expansion. Two days later 5 protestors climbed onto the roof of the Palace of Westminster and hung banners in protest of the expansion as well.
"The northern runway is now being partially used while police deal with the incident," a BAA Heathrow spokesperson said. "The southern runway is fully operational. Some delays are occurring as a result."
If you're flying into or out of Heathrow today (Thursday) call ahead to make sure your flight hasn't been cancelled.
