On June 6, a security threat on FlySafair Flight 102 led to the arrest of two passengers at Cape Town International Airport (CPT). The South African Police Service (SAPS) Bomb Squad responded to the incident, forcing all passengers and crew to disembark the aircraft, which was later deemed safe.
By Avinash VJ
Incident Details
The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA), which oversees the country's nine principal airports, confirmed the Bomb Squad's deployment to Cape Town International on Thursday evening. Law enforcement agencies, including SAPS, managed the situation alongside airport and airline management to ensure adherence to aviation safety and security protocols.
The crew of FlySafair Flight FA102, scheduled to depart for Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (JNB), was alerted to a potential security threat. According to Flightradar24, the flight was set to leave Cape Town at 17:25 and arrive in Johannesburg at 19:30 local time. However, the flight experienced a delay of over five hours. The aircraft involved, a 21-year-old Boeing 737-800 with registration ZS-SJR, was thoroughly inspected.
ACSA reported that the incident was sparked by comments from two passengers on Flight 102. This isolated incident was specific to the FlySafair aircraft, which SAPS has since cleared. The two suspects were arrested, and SAPS is currently handling the case. FlySafair has not provided additional comments on the matter.
Return to Normal Operations
By June 7, Cape Town Airport resumed normal operations following the previous night’s security threat. Affected passengers were rebooked on another flight and reached their destination safely. Flightradar24 shows that FlySafair Flight 102 finally departed Cape Town at 22:44, arriving in Johannesburg at 00:25.
To ensure safety, several measures were implemented. Wortan, a certified South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) detection dog, was also on site to assist. ACSA Regional General Manager Cluster 2, Mark Maclean, praised SAPS and Aviation Security (AVSEC) for their combined efforts in maintaining the safety and security of passengers and crew.
Maclean emphasized that the successful resolution of the threat underscores the importance of effective incident management, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to security. While details about the two passengers' comments are limited, this incident serves as a reminder that making dangerous or reckless remarks at an airport can have serious consequences.
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