A veterinary professor from the University of Alexandria in Egypt confronted the pilot of an EgyptAir flight last night, claiming to be wearing an explosive suicide belt and demanding to be taken to either Turkey or Cyprus. After negotiations between the crew and the man, the flight, originally scheduled to land in Cairo (CAI), was diverted to Larnaca Airport (LCA).
Upon landing, most of the 81 passengers were released. The man insisted that a four-page letter be delivered to his ex-wife, who lives in Cyprus. Authorities arranged for the woman, with whom the suspect shares four children, to come to the airport to assist in persuading him to surrender. Their involvement helped de-escalate the situation and contributed to a peaceful resolution.
The Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the man’s arrest and reported that all passengers and crew were freed unharmed. Subsequent inspection found that the alleged explosive device consisted of empty phone cases and that the suspect was otherwise unarmed. Law enforcement officials described his behavior during the incident as erratic and noted that his demands and statements varied throughout the standoff.
Authorities have characterized the suspect as mentally unstable. At this stage, investigators say the precise motive for his actions remains unclear. The airline and airport authorities cooperated with Cypriot police to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, and an inquiry is expected to further examine the circumstances that led to the diversion and the suspect’s claims.
This incident prompted a temporary disruption at Larnaca Airport, where security screening and operations were briefly intensified while officials secured the aircraft and processed passengers. Airport staff and emergency responders followed established protocols for hijacking threats and suspicious devices, prioritizing the swift release and welfare of those on board.
Following the arrest, authorities processed the released passengers and arranged for their onward travel. EgyptAir and relevant diplomatic channels were notified and remained in contact with Cypriot officials as the case proceeded. The suspect will face legal and psychiatric evaluation under Cypriot jurisdiction as part of the investigation.
As investigators continue their work, airport officials and the airline restated their commitment to passenger safety and crisis management. Passengers affected by the diversion have been offered assistance and information about their travel arrangements as officials finalize reports on the incident.