Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Turkish Airlines to Seek Legal Action After False Wi‑Fi Bomb Threat Forces Emergency Landing in Barcelona

Investigators are now focused on identifying the passenger who renamed a phone hotspot with a bomb message.

Overview

  • Flight TK1853 from Istanbul diverted to BarcelonaEl Prat after a bomb threat appeared as a mobile Wi‑Fi network name seen on board.
  • The pilot declared an emergency with transponder code 7700 near Sardinia, and the aircraft was escorted by French and Spanish fighter jets to a safe landing.
  • Passengers and crew—148 travelers and seven staff—disembarked to a secured area as bomb-disposal units inspected the plane and luggage, finding no explosives.
  • Aena said airport operations continued normally as Protecció Civil activated the Aerocat alert plan and security agencies coordinated the response.
  • The Guardia Civil has opened an investigation to identify the device’s owner, with potential charges under Spain’s Penal Code Article 561, while Turkish Airlines has announced plans to pursue legal action.