Luton airport remains closed due to security alert

Luton airport remains closed this evening after it was evacuated following a security alert, disrupting air travel for thousands of passengers.

A spokeswoman for the airport said the airport terminal building was evacuated after a suspicious item was found in the security search area.

“The decision has been taken with the police to ensure the safety and security of passengers and staff.”

All incoming flights were suspended and the approach road to the airport was closed. “Passengers are advised to contact their airlines to establish the status of their flights,” the spokeswoman said.

Bedfordshire Police said that they had cleared the departure lounge at

Luton, the country's sixth biggest airport which primarily serves holiday destinations. Britain recently raised its international terrorism alert to its second-highest level, saying Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Iraq posed the country's greatest-ever security risk.

The airport spokeswoman added later: “We understand passengers will be frustrated by the delays they are experiencing.

“We are working closely with the police to ensure passengers are not inconvenienced unnecessarily but we must ensure that the safety and security of all our passengers and staff remains our top priority.”