Security alert grounds flights at Heathrow Terminal 4
Filed 03/07/07
British Airways European flights from Heathrow Airport Terminal 4 have been cancelled for the rest of the day (3 July) following a security alert sparked by a suspect bag.
Police were alerted to the luggage shortly before midday on Tuesday (3 July) and as a precaution it was decided to perform secondary searches on all departing passengers at the aircraft gate. In order to facilitate this process, a decision was made by the police to partially evacuate the departure lounge and rescreen passengers.
British Airways has cancelled all European flights departing from Terminal 4 for the remainder of the day and long haul flights until 2100. Arrivals at the terminal are operating as normal and BA flights to and from Terminals 1 and 3 and other UK airports remain unaffected. Terminal 4 is also used by KLM, Qantas Airways and Sri Lankan Air.
This latest Heathrow security alert follows the recent failed terrorist attacks in London and Glasgow. Additional security measures are in place at all BAA operated airports, including restrictions dropping off and picking-up passengers in front of airport buildings. BAA has recommended passengers use public transport to get to airports and says travellers using private cars will find it more convenient to use short term car parks to gain access to terminals.
Earlier in the day a controlled explosion was carried out on a suspect device near Hammersmith Tube station. Up to 8,000 commuters were forced to find alternative routes into work as Hammersmith and Barons Court stations were closed for an hour.
http://www.transportbriefing.co.uk/story.php?id=4173