RAF jets escort Ryanair flight to Stansted airport after security alert

Essex police took over the investigation once the flight landed and later confirmed nothing suspicious was found on the aircraft.

A Ryanair passenger jet was escorted into Stansted airport by two RAF fighter jets after a suspected hoax security alert.

A Ryanair passenger jet was escorted into Stansted airport by two RAF fighter jets after a suspected hoax security alert. (AP File Photo)

Flights were temporarily grounded at the hub as the plane was redirected from its route between Kaunas in Lithuania and Luton airport in Bedfordshire.

Essex police took over the investigation once the flight landed and later confirmed nothing suspicious was found on the aircraft.

A Ryanair spokesman said: “A flight from Kaunas to London Luton diverted to London Stansted in line with procedures after Lithuanian authorities received a suspected hoax security alert.

“The aircraft landed normally at Stansted and customers will be transferred to Luton by coach when cleared to do so.”

Essex police said the plane landed at 8.55am and by 11am they had completed enquiries and found nothing suspicious.

Ch Inspector Richard Phillibrown said: “We take all intelligence received regarding potential threats to public safety very seriously. The safety of the public is paramount.”

An RAF spokesman said: “Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this morning from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft.

RAF aircraft are authorised to travel at supersonic speed over land only in emergency situations.