A bomb scare at Queenstown Airport is being investigating. Image credit: Denisbin, Flickr
New Zealand’s Queenstown Airport has been evacuated after receiving a bomb threat on Friday morning.
At around 8:40am (local time), police received a report of “what appears to be an explosive device”.
Queenstown Airport activated emergency security protocols and all travellers were evacuated.
It is believed that passengers on the tarmac were escorted to a secure location where police were waiting.
The incident is being investigated by the NZ Police and Aviation Security.
The New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit has also been notified and will attend to assess the threat.
The airport remains closed while authorities conduct a risk assessment, according to a statement made by Queenstown Airport.
This will likely take several hours, with further updates to be provided.
As a result, there are currently no flights coming into or leaving Queenstown.
It is believed that one plane had to turn around mid-flight.
“We apologise to our passengers for the disruption, especially as this has happened at the end of the busy school holidays period,” said Air New Zealand’s chief operational integrity and safety officer, David Morgan.
“Safety is our number one priority, and we are working with relevant authorities.”
Queenstown Airport also stated that safety was their priority.
“Airport staff are working closely with airlines to ensure the safety of all passengers.”
Passengers and members of the public have been advised to avoid the airport until the incident has been resolved.
“This will disrupt travel plans, so if you had flights booked today, please contact your airline for further information and to rebook,” stated the airport.
Further updates will be provided via the Queenstown Airport Facebook page.
