United Kingdom: Manchester Airport evacuated June 9

Event

The Manchester Airport (MAN) was evacuated on Friday, June 9, at roughly 15:00 (local time) after the discovery of an unattended bag in Terminal Two. According to a statement from airport management, the controlled evacuation was ordered as part of standard procedure. As of about 18:00, social media reports indicate travelers have been allowed to reenter some parts of the building and arriving flights have been diverted to Terminal One, although a section of Terminal Two remains cordoned off. This is a developing situation; anticipate travel delays and monitor the situation.

Context

The country remains on high alert after a terrorist attack was carried out in the city. On Monday, May 22, at least 22 people were killed and 59 more were injured in an explosion that occurred at the Manchester Arena (located in the northern English city of Manchester) at approximately 22:40 (local time). The incident occurred at the end of a concert being given by pop singer Ariana Grande. Police officers are treating the incident as a terrorist attack carried out by a suicide bomber, Salman Abedi, who was killed on the spot. On Tuesday, May 23, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the bombing.

The Manchester attack was the biggest attack since 2005, when 52 people died and 700 others were injured on London’s public transportation system.

Advice

Those traveling from, to, or through Manchester Airport should anticipate delays and contact their airline for more information. Individuals present in the United Kingdom are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and report any suspicious objects or behavior.