Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) says operations at Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) are continuing as normal following Thursday’s security threat. ACSA assured the public that there are no further risks to airport operations.

Two men were arrested for allegedly making comments aboard a FlySafair flight that the flight was in danger.

Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlende Mathe, says the incident occurred on Thursday evening, as the aircraft was preparing for departure from CTIA to O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Emergency plans were activated after the cabin crew was alerted.

“SAPS K9 and Bomb technicians as well as the Special Task Force were called in. A tactical approach was activated and the suspects were removed from the aircraft. Passengers were also moved by the airline.”

Mathe says following a thorough inspection of the aircraft, two optic scopes for rifles were found. However, these items are not classified as dangerous under the Firearms Control Act of 2000, she says.

The suspects were charged with contravening the Civil Aviation Act.

Meanwhile, ACSA Regional General Manager, Mark Maclean, noted that the other passengers were rebooked onto another flight. They arrived safely at their destination. He says the airport and airline management ensured full compliance with all aviation safety and security protocols required by law.

“We would like to praise SAPS and AVSEC (Aviation Security) again for their combined efforts in upholding the safety and security of passengers and cabin crew. The safety and security of passengers and crew are of utmost importance.”

Mathe took the opportunity to remind airplane passengers and airport visitors that it is a serious offense to make false threats or engage in any behaviour that could endanger the safety of an aircraft. Acts of violence, verbal threats, or disorderly conduct are prosecutable offenses.