Threat delays Emirates flight

An Emirates passenger flight from Mumbai to Dubai with 356 passengers on board was delayed by four hours yesterday following a security threat.

Confirming the same, an Emirates spokesperson told Emirates Business that its flight EK 505 (Mumbai-Dubai) was called back by Mumbai's Air Traffic Control after departure.

"The flight was delayed for around four hours as full security procedures were activated including the deplaning of all passengers and a thorough screening of the aircraft, passengers and baggage," he said.

"The airline is extending full co-operation during this period. After receiving clearance from the ATC, the aircraft has departed Mumbai with all remaining passengers," the spokesperson said, adding that a male passenger and his wife have been handed over to the local Mumbai police authorities for questioning.

The Indian media reported that the flight made an emergency landing at the Mumbai airport yesterday after an anonymous caller rang up to say that there was a terrorist onboard.

It added that the aircraft was grounded after the anonymous caller alleged that two passengers on the flight were members of the Pakistan-based militant organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba.

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