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RAF jets scrambled from Lincolnshire to divert Pakistan airlines flight to Stansted

Credit: RAF

RAF fighter jets were scrambled from Lincolnshire to help escort a Pakistan International Airlines flight to Stansted airport amidst reports of a "disruptive passenger" on board.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed it deployed its Typhoon jets on Tuesday to divert the aircraft which had originally been en route to London Heathrow.

According to an MoD statement:

"Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this afternoon from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft. The aircraft was intercepted and safely escorted to Stansted airport."

– Ministry Of Defence.

The diversion was due to reports of a disruptive passenger on board and was "not believed to be a hijack situation or terror matter", according to Essex Police.