TEL AVIV, Israel — A high-stakes security incident involving a Wizz Air flight from London triggered a military response and a temporary lockdown at Ben Gurion International Airport earlier today.
Flight W95302, an Airbus A321 (registration Airbus A321-271NX) flying direct from London to Tel Aviv, was initially denied landing after reports of “suspicious behavior” onboard surfaced as the aircraft approached Israeli airspace.
The Mid-Air Incident
According to sources speaking to N12, the alarm was raised when a passenger allegedly changed their personal WiFi hotspot name to “terrorist” and began broadcasting threatening messages to other passengers via the network.
The digital threat sparked immediate concern of a potential onboard attack or a security breach targeting the Israeli capital. In accordance with strict national defense protocols:
- The aircraft was ordered to enter a holding pattern off the Mediterranean coast.
- The Israeli Air Force (IAF) scrambled fighter jets to intercept and escort the plane.
- The pilots remained in constant communication with ground control for several minutes while the situation was assessed.
Tarmac Response and Screening
Once cleared to land under military escort, the plane was directed to a remote section of the tarmac. Israeli Police and security units, including K-9 teams, were waiting as the aircraft taxied to a halt.
Every passenger was deplaned and screened, and all luggage was subjected to intensive searches for explosives or related security threats.
Investigation Outcome
The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) confirmed later this afternoon that the suspicions of a security incident have been officially lifted. No explosives were found, and the “suspicious behavior” was determined to be a malicious hoax or a severe lapse in judgment by an individual onboard. The return flight W95302 has left Tel Aviv Airport.
