The National Air Traffic Services (NATS) received a bomb threat targeting Qatar Airways flight QTR52N on the evening of 25/7. This immediately triggered emergency responses from police, airport management, and the air force.
The UK Ministry of Defense confirmed that two Typhoon fighter jets launched from Coningsby base as part of a rapid response mechanism to monitor the situation. Video recorded by residents showed the Typhoon formation flying behind a Boeing 777-300ER over Manchester.
Radio communication data revealed the Qatar Airways crew detected the fighter jets approaching. They sent a message to the airline's operations department, informing them that the aircraft was being escorted by the British air force and awaiting instructions from air traffic control.
The Qatar Airways plane landed safely approximately two hours after the alert. British police confirmed there was no threat to passengers or crew, and the incident resulted in no injuries or damage.
British authorities announced that a 14-year-old teenager from Bolton, who was not on the flight, is "being asked to assist with inquiries." Police have not yet clarified whether this teenager directly made the hoax bomb threat.
Chief Inspector Gary Homa, from Manchester Airport Police, stated that all information regarding threats to aviation is handled with utmost seriousness. "Hoax behavior is completely unacceptable," he said. "The safety of the public is always our top priority, and all information of this nature is handled very seriously."
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A Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet during an exercise at Fairford military airport, England, 7/2025. Photo: USAF. |
According to Homa, hoax calls cause serious disruption, divert emergency resources, and create unnecessary anxiety for passengers, crew, and the public. He warned, "Fortunately, the incident concluded safely, but reporting false information is no joke and can lead to serious consequences."
Scrambling fighter jets to monitor civilian aircraft that lose contact, are suspected of being hijacked, or having a bomb onboard is a standard procedure in many countries. This operation aims to help authorities accurately assess the unfolding situation and prepare appropriate response plans.
