A 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of making a hoax bomb threat following an incident at Manchester Airport today.
A RAF fighter jet escorted a passenger plane into Manchester Airport after the pilot reported "a possible device on board."
Qatar Airways Flight QR23 from Doha to Manchester landed safely this afternoon after the crew on board received a threat during the flight.
Chief Superintendent John O'Hare, said: "An incoming plane has been escorted into the airport by the Royal Air Force as a result of information received by the pilot about a possible device on board.
"We don't know how genuine this threat is but it is absolutely vital we deal with the situation as a full emergency.
"As a result people will see the police and other agencies at the airport and on the airfield.
"At this time I would urge them not to be alarmed. Our response will be as comprehensive as it is proportionate with the safety of those on board and in and around the airport our paramount concern."
Runway operations were temporarily suspended while the incident was dealt with and the airport reopened after a twenty five minute runway closure, during which a number of incoming flights were diverted to nearby airports.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed at 5.30pm that the search of the plane was complete and nothing had been found.
Updated 6th August: The 47-year-old man arrested following the incident at Manchester Airport has been sectioned under the Mental Health Act.
Following his arrest he was assessed by medical staff and again by a mental health team. He was subsequently sectioned to allow for a fuller assessment and appropriate treatment.
Passenger Josh Hartley has captured the plane being escorted into Manchester Airport on video.
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