Thousands of passengers faced major disruption at Edinburgh Airport on Friday evening after a potentially suspicious item prompted an evacuation and flight diversions.
Incident Details
The suspect package was reported around 6:50 PM on June 19, 2026, leading to the airport being cleared as a precaution. Bomb disposal crews from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) were dispatched to the scene, and a cordon was established around the airport, with road closures in effect.
Flight Disruptions
Several flights were diverted to nearby airports, including Glasgow, while some departures were relocated to other airfields. Passengers on planes that had already landed were stranded on the tarmac, unable to disembark due to the ongoing incident. As of 11 PM, the airport remained closed.
Passenger Alan Jenkins shared on social media: “New update from our pilot: We are ‘all in the dark I’m afraid’ as to when we can get off the plane. We’re told all ground staff have been told to return to offices.” He humorously noted that fellow passengers had “a few questions” about disembarking in time for the Scotland World Cup match against Morocco.
Official Statements
Police Scotland said: “Edinburgh airport has been evacuated as a precaution following a report of a potentially suspicious package, reported around 6.50pm on Friday, 19 June, 2026. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) are in attendance and a cordon is in place around the airport with roads closed. Enquiries are ongoing and members of the public are advised to check ahead and contact their airline for updates.”
Edinburgh Airport added: “Due to reports of a potentially suspicious item, the airport has been evacuated while specialist teams investigate. Updates will be issued when available. Passengers should check with their airline for the latest information on their flight.”
Transport Impact
Transport to and from the airport was also affected. Edinburgh trams were running only between Gyle Centre and St Andrew Square, while Scottish Citylink buses terminated at the Moxi hotel bus stop and picked up from the Hilton bus stop until further notice.
The airport advised all passengers to contact their airlines for the most current flight information and to avoid the area until the situation is resolved.
