Bomb threat diverts flight

A Virgin passenger plane was diverted to Stansted airport in a security alert, Scotland Yard said.

The aircraft flying from Hong Kong to London's Heathrow airport landed at around 5.30am today after a reported bomb threat, according to reports.

Up to 240 passengers on board were thought to be on board the flight.
Essex Police are investigating the incident at the airport.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson confirmed that Flight VF201 was diverted to London Stansted as a "precautionary measure".

The spokesperson added: "The aircraft and passengers are now subject to full security checks by the appropriate authorities. The flight departed Hong Kong at 2342 local time and following the diversion landed safely at Stansted at 5.23am local time.

"The aircraft was an Airbus A340600 and was carrying 214 passengers and 18 crew.
"The safety and welfare of our crew and passengers is Virgin Atlantic's top priority and we would like to thank passengers for their patience and we regret any inconvenience caused to them."