Two Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon fighter jets were scrambled to intercept a Qatar Airways flight bound for Manchester after a threat was made to the aircraft. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the jets were deployed from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire on Friday evening.
The Boeing 777, flight 23 from Doha, entered UK airspace and was intercepted by the fighter jets over Nottingham. Air traffic control service Nats reported receiving the threat around 6 p.m. and initiated a response involving police, the RAF, and airport authorities.
The fighter escort was called off before the aircraft reached Manchester. The plane, which was carrying passengers and crew, landed safely at Manchester airport at approximately 7:45 p.m. Police stated there was no threat to those on board.
Greater Manchester Police announced that a 14-year-old boy from Bolton, who was not a passenger on the flight, is assisting officers with their inquiries. Chief Inspector Gary Homa described the hoax as "completely unacceptable," emphasizing that all safety concerns are treated with extreme seriousness. He noted that false reports can cause significant disruption, divert emergency resources, and create unnecessary concern.
An RAF spokesman confirmed that a "quick reaction alert" was launched for the Qatar Airways flight due to concerns raised by civil authorities. The incident was resolved, and the airliner landed without incident.
A spokesperson for Qatar Airways stated that the flight received an escort for part of its journey following a security notification from UK authorities. The airline assured that the aircraft was never in danger, operations on board remained normal, and all passengers and crew disembarked safely. The safety and security of passengers and crew remain the airline's highest priority.