Middle East Airlines flight evacuated after passenger bomb threat

A Middle East Airlines (MEA) flight traveling from Beirut to Paris was evacuated and searched after a passenger claimed to be carrying a bomb. The incident occurred on flight ME 229 at Rafic Hariri International Airport shortly before its scheduled departure.

The threat was triggered when a passenger, while placing a bag in the overhead compartment, informed a flight attendant that the bag contained explosives. Following standard security protocols, the pilot ordered all passengers to disembark, and security forces conducted a thorough search of the aircraft and passenger luggage. No explosives were found.

The passenger later informed authorities that the statement was intended as a joke. Despite this, the individual was detained by security forces for questioning and remains in custody as investigations continue. Aviation officials emphasized that all such claims must be treated as serious security threats regardless of intent to ensure passenger safety.