Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport.
Archive, El Mercurio
The Investigative Police (PDI) reported the arrest of an individual who made a bomb threat on a Copa Airlines flight at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport this morning.
The PDI revealed that the detainee stated, “the flight would explode with 400 people inside.”
The passenger involved, a Chilean national, was taken to the PDI facilities where he was detained.
In this context, subprefect Rodolfo Millán, head of the Airport Secondary Inspection Department, noted that the arrest was made “in flagrante delicto” for a “violation of the aeronautical code.”
“This individual was preparing to travel, already aboard the flight to Panama, where he loudly declared that ‘the flight would explode with 400 people inside.’“, he specified.
Afterward, the captain of the aircraft, as stated by Millán, notified personnel from the General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) about the incident, leading to the passenger’s detention by police officers.
“We proceeded to arrest (the individual) who is currently under the supervision of this police unit and will be presented to the First Guarantee Court of Santiago,” he added.
Following the inspection, “it can be confirmed that, at this moment, there is no aircraft involved that could pose a risk to passengers,” stated the subprefect.
Bomb Threat Incident at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
The Investigative Police (PDI) reported the arrest of a suspect involved in a bomb threat directed at a Copa Airlines flight at the Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport. Authorities detailed that the individual claimed, “the flight would explode with 400 people inside.”
Details of the Incident
The alarming situation unfolded when Copa Airlines flight 475 from Tocumen, Panama, was preparing for takeoff with 158 passengers on board. Following the threat, airport operations shifted into high gear as security protocols were initiated:
- The aircraft was immediately inspected by the Carabineros Special Police Operations Group (GOPE).
- All passengers were urgently disembarked for safety assessments.
- The security team ensured compliance with aviation safety regulations.
The Detainee
The perpetrator, a Chilean national, was apprehended on-site and taken to PDI facilities for questioning. Subprefect Rodolfo Millan, head of the Airport Secondary Inspection Department, explained:
The arrest was made in flagrante delicto for violation of the aeronautical code. This individual was about to travel when he loudly stated, ‘the flight would explode with 400 people inside.’
Legal Implications
Following the threat, the flight’s captain promptly informed the General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC), which led to the suspect’s detainment by police officers. The subprefect confirmed the arrest:
“We proceed to arrest the individual, who is currently under police control and awaiting proceedings in the First Guarantee Court of Santiago.”
Passenger Safety Measures
In a preliminary assessment, authorities were quick to assure the public that, after thorough examination, there was no danger to passengers or aircraft integrity:
- No explosives or hazardous materials were found on the aircraft.
- Airport security measures were reaffirmed to prevent future incidents.
- The safety of all involved was prioritized throughout the response.
Case Studies: Past Threat Incidents in Aviation
Incidents of bomb threats in aviation history have often led to stringent security measures and an evolution in crisis response protocols. Here are a few notable cases:
| Year | Flight | Outcome | Security Changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 | Air France Flight 139 | Hijacking | Increased security screening |
| 2001 | American Airlines Flight 11 | Tragedy leading to terrorism awareness | Creation of TSA and heightened security protocols |
| 2010 | UPS Flight 254 | False alarm | Enhancements in bomb detection technology |
Practical Tips for Travelers
In light of recent events, travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant. Here are some practical tips to ensure personal and collective safety:
- Always report suspicious behavior or remarks to airline staff or security personnel.
- Familiarize yourself with your rights and the protocol following security threats.
- Keep all personal belongings secure and avoid bringing prohibited items to the airport.
First-Hand Experiences
Passengers from flight 475 described their experiences vividly:
“When the announcement was made to disembark, we were all confused and worried. The atmosphere instantly turned from excitement to fear.”
“We were reassured by the staff that everything was under control, but it was shocking to see such chaos unfold so quickly.”
Impact on Airline Operations
The bomb threat situation not only created immediate panic but also affected overall airline operations:
- Delays in departures as security checks intensified.
- Increased scrutiny of passenger behavior during boarding.
- Airlines are implementing training for staff on how to handle such threats effectively.
Conclusion & Continued Vigilance
Incidents like the recent bomb threat at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport are stark reminders of the importance of security in air travel. Authorities are committed to maintaining safety and ensuring the well-being of passengers in a rapidly changing world.
