In brief
A plane from Israel landed at Sofia Airport following a bomb threat received by e‑mail, and Bulgarian authorities conducted a counter‑terrorism inspection. Transport Minister Georgi Peev confirmed that no explosives were found on two aircraft, while Interior Secretary Lyubomir Nikolov said investigators are probing the origin of the threat. No incidents and no clear terrorist intent were reported, though authorities have heightened vigilance.
A flight from Israel touched down at Sofia Airport late Tuesday after a bomb threat arrived by e‑mail, triggering a counter‑terrorism inspection by Bulgarian security forces. The Interior Ministry said the plane was examined for possible explosive devices and no incidents were reported.
The inspection was carried out by the Specialized Counter‑Terrorism Unit, Interior Ministry Secretary‑General Lyubomir Nikolov told reporters in Pernik, citing a bomb threat that had been received through e‑mail before the aircraft’s arrival.
Later in the day, Transport Minister Georgi Peev announced that two aircraft had been inspected at Sofia Airport in response to bomb threats. Peev said neither plane had been diverted from their scheduled routes, and the inspections found no explosive devices.
Nikolov added that authorities were working to identify the sender of the email that prompted the threat. He recalled previous incidents in which the originating e‑mail address and IP were traced back to European countries.
"The worrying thing is that some airlines have now also started to be targeted, which means that aircraft have to be diverted and the relevant measures taken," Nikolov said.
Transport Minister Peev praised the coordination between air traffic controllers, the air force and other institutions. He explained that the protocol follows the source of the threat, whether it comes from the pilot, the airline or another channel.
"The most recent incident was based on a report from the pilot. The pilot received information through his own channels – from the airline – that such a threat existed. He reported it to air traffic control, and they initiated the protocol," Peev stated.
Peev emphasized that the decision on where a flight lands lies with the aircraft’s captain. The state’s role is to secure the landing, inspect the aircraft and determine whether a device is present or the threat was merely a warning.
Both ministers highlighted that Bulgarian airports are operating at a state of readiness, with standard procedures in place. No explosives were found, and there is currently no evidence pointing to a specific terrorist intent.
Security measures at airports have been stepped up in light of the threats. Authorities have pledged further efforts to trace the sender’s location and enhance counter‑terrorism coordination.
While the investigation continues, authorities have stated that the aircraft have returned to normal operations and no passengers were harmed.
The incident underscores the growing trend of targeting aircraft with bomb threats, prompting authorities to remain vigilant and ready to respond swiftly should a future threat arise.
