RAF jets swarm plane to UK after 'bomb threat made on social media'

RAF jets swarmed a plane to the UK on Thursday afternoon (October 17) after a 'bomb threat was made on social media', it has been revealed.

An Air India flight from Mumbai to London's Heathrow Airport declared the emergency above the south east coast of the UK at around midday.

In footage shared online from inside the cockpit of the Boeing 777, the pilot can be heard saying: "There is a suspected bomb on board, requesting landing sir. We have a bomb threat."

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RAF typhoon fighter jets swooped in to meet flight AIC129 in the air off the coast of the UK as it made its way into Heathrow, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed.

Two RAF Quick Reaction Alert fighter aircraft were launched to investigate the commercial plane, which later landed safely at Heathrow before passengers disembarked the aircraft.

An Air India spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News: “Air India flight AI129, from Mumbai to London, received a bomb threat on social media today. The aircraft landed safely at Heathrow Airport and all passengers and crew have disembarked.

"Our top priority is the safety and security of our passengers and crew, and we thank local authorities for their support and assistance extended to the passengers during this unexpected disruption.”

A Royal Air Force spokesperson added: "We can confirm that RAF Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighter aircraft from RAF Coningsby were launched this afternoon, to investigate a civilian aircraft.

“Following an uneventful interception the aircraft was released to continue to its original destination under the direction of civilian air traffic control. This incident is now being handled under the control of civilian authorities.”