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Serious threat behind El Al airliner diversion
CTV News has learned that a security threat of the highest order was the reason an Israeli El Al airliner flying from Tel Aviv was diverted away from Torontoâs Pearson International Airport. "There was a threat of a missile and officials say that it was so credible that they decided not to take any chances. That is why they put the helicopters in the air with forward-looking infrared radar, searching for any kind of signature around the airport that might indicate where the terrorists may be hiding," CTVâs Mike Duffy said.Originating in Tel Aviv, the plane was first ordered to land in Montreal but it was diverted to Hamilton when it became airborne. Clarification: the plane landed in Montreal at an unused airport (Mirabel, cargo only) and then flew to Hamilton (about 30 minutes from Toronto) The diversion was ordered by Transport Canada, based on a tip from Israeli security sources. Once in Hamilton, the jetliner carrying nearly 200 passengers was surrounded by police tactical teams with helicopters hovering overhead. "The matter is now being investigated by the RCMP, CSIS, Transport Canada and the Peel regional police," Transport Minister David Collenette said from Ottawa. Collenette refused to discuss the nature of the threat, other than to say it was "specific to the El Al flight." Airport spokesperson Ken Mitchell said the plane had been diverted to Hamilton because of an undisclosed threat to the aircraft and Torontoâs Pearson International Airport. The El Al flight runs daily to Toronto and Los Angeles, from Israelâs Ben Gurion airport. Passenger Shawn Davidson said people on the plane remained calm even though they had little information. She added she believes "El Al is the safest airline in the world." Security for the airline carrier includes armed guards at check-in, on-board marshals and extensive luggage searches. ...but if they ever privatize it, I wouldnât fly with them. Posted by: Rafael 2003-10-24 |
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