# Europe on alert after wave of hoax bomb threats

> At least 35 planes were searched or diverted across Europe this week after hoax bomb threats, with one Aer Lingus pilot now facing French scrutiny.
- Title: Europe on alert after wave of hoax bomb threats · the Guardian
- Summary: At least 35 planes were searched or diverted across Europe this week after hoax bomb threats, with one Aer Lingus pilot now facing French scrutiny.
- Keywords: aer lingus, hoax bomb threats, european airlines, military intervention, the Guardian
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/world/live/2026/nov/06/high-alert-hoax-bomb-threats-france-air-lingus-belgium-pope-leo-europe-live
- Published: 2026-11-06T09:03:50+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: aer lingus, hoax bomb threats, european airlines, military intervention, news, world
## Wave of hoax threats disrupts European flights
Airlines and airports across Europe are on high alert after hoax bomb threats targeted commercial flights this week, leaving at least 35 planes searched or diverted.
## Aer Lingus pilot faces French scrutiny
An Aer Lingus pilot flying from Dublin to Rome was diverted to the Évreux military base after a bomb threat. French authorities are scrutinising his apparent initial refusal to land where instructed.
## Military jets scrambled, charges possible
The pilot's refusal to land prompted the French military to scramble two fighter jets to intercept the aircraft. Prosecutor Rémi Coutin said he could bring charges for refusing to cooperate with authorities.
## Key takeaway

European airlines faced dozens of hoax bomb threats this week, diverting at least 35 planes and prompting military intervention in one case involving an Aer Lingus flight.