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Bomb Threat on Flight to Lanzarote Prompts Portuguese F-16 Escort

F-16M jets on permanent alert monitored the plane until Spain assumed control beyond Portuguese airspace.

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Overview

  • At 9:00 am on June 19, the flight declared a bomb threat as it crossed Portuguese airspace.
  • Two F-16M jets on permanent alert launched from Monte Real to locate and escort the passenger plane.
  • The crew initially planned to divert to Faro Airport but opted to continue toward Lanzarote under military escort.
  • After exiting Portugal’s airspace, Spain took over the mission and the plane landed safely at Lanzarote Airport.
  • The incident highlights Portugal’s sustained F-16M readiness and international coordination in aviation security.