A handgun was today found in hand luggage belonging to a passenger boarding a flight from Stockholm to Britain.
The discovery was made as passengers passed through security at Stockholm Vasteras Airport ready to board Ryanair flight FR685 to London, a spokeswoman for the airline said.
One of the passengers was arrested prior to boarding the flight after the gun was found.
Security staff at the airport and the local police were now interviewing all the passengers.
A thorough security search of the plane was being carried out as a precaution before being cleared to depart for London Stansted later tonight, the spokeswoman added.
The spokeswoman said: "Ryanair commends the prompt action and vigilance of the security staff at Stockholm Vasteras Airport and we are co-operating fully with the relevant Swedish Authorities.
"We apologise sincerely to our passengers for this delay, but safety and security is our number one priority."
PA