Fifteen passenger flights across Europe were disrupted on November 5, 2026, after bomb threats prompted multiple diversions and security checks in Italy, Bulgaria, Belgium, France, and Austria.
Details of Flight Disruptions and Diversions
The threats affected flights operated by Ryanair, Wizz Air, Aer Lingus, and Aegean Airlines. Aer Lingus flight EI-DEH from Dublin to Rome was diverted to a military base near Évreux, France, where all 151 passengers and six crew were evacuated safely. Ryanair flight FR1730 from London to Sofia was diverted to Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Wizz Air flight W46387 from Milan to Warsaw was redirected to Vienna, Austria. Three Ryanair flights originating from Madrid, Copenhagen,
and London to Bulgaria received bomb warnings; Madrid and Copenhagen flights continued to Sofia, while the London flight was rerouted to Plovdiv. Aegean Airlines flight A3552 from Thessaloniki to Milan and Ryanair flight FR8953 from Porto to Milan landed safely after receiving threats and underwent law enforcement inspections.
Official Statements and Safety Confirmations
Wizz Air confirmed involvement in the incidents and stated, “Wizz Air is not the only airline affected. Other carriers are also facing threats that have led to flight disruptions and security checks.” The Bulgarian Transport Ministry reported no confirmed threats materialized on Ryanair flights to Bulgaria. LOT Polish Airlines confirmed that no
suspicious items were found during inspections. The French prime minister’s office reported the safe landing and ongoing bomb disposal operations on the diverted Aer Lingus aircraft.
Source and Nature of Threats
The bomb threats were sent via an anonymous email in Italian, attributed to a group named Fighters of the Male State. The email targeted flights from Helsinki and Dublin to Rome and expressed opposition to a “feminist regime.” These threats followed a smaller wave on November 3, 2026, which affected at least seven flights across Europe. Authorities increased security measures and conducted thorough aircraft inspections after both incidents.
Traveler Impact and Airport Operations
The passengers on at least 15
flights experienced diversions, delays, evacuations, and redirected landings. Operations at Sofia and Plovdiv airports were temporarily disrupted but have returned to normal functioning. Military and law enforcement teams conducted bomb disposal and security inspections on multiple aircraft and affected airport facilities as part of the response.
Security Outcomes and Ongoing Measures
All affected aircraft landed safely with no explosives or dangerous materials found. No injuries were reported in any of the incidents. Security inspections and bomb disposal procedures remain ongoing in response to the threats.
