British Airways flight aborts takeoff on runway after bomb threat

A British Airways jet set to fly to the UK had take-off aborted on the runway at the last minute after a threat was received. The drama unfolded on the Boeing 777-200ER service from Bermuda to London Heathrow on Sunday night.

Airport bosses confirmed a bomb warning had been sent to them. The Captain had squawked 7700 – air code for an emergency – with air traffic control cancelling the plane’s final take-off clearance.

A Bermuda Airport spokesman said: “Shortly before 9.30pm on Sunday, May 5, 2024, police were notified by staff at the LF Wade International Airport of a bomb threat that was received via email.

“Staff also advised that emergency landing protocols had been initiated at the airport.” Flight BA158 was abandoned with passengers ushered outside onto the tarmac, as police and anti-terror cops combed the plane.

The plane was seconds from departure for Heathrow airport on Sunday evening when Bermuda airport authorities received an email warning the specific BA flight had been targeted. Bermuda authorities closed off roads within a six-mile perimeter of the international airport.

According to the Sun due to a sailing event in the area there were no hotel rooms available meaning they slept on airport floors before flying home on Monday. British Airways said: “The safety of our customers and colleagues is always our highest priority and we followed our standard procedures to disembark the aircraft. Our teams are caring for our customers and supporting the crew as we work to get them on their way as soon as possible."