RAF jets have been scrambled to intercept a Ryanair flight from Lithuania after a security alert that was sparked by a suspected hoax.
The plane was bound for Luton but was diverted to Stansted and landed safely.
A spokesperson for Ryanair said: “This flight from Kaunas to London Luton diverted to London Stansted in line with procedures after Lithuanian authorities received a suspected hoax security alert.
"The aircraft landed normally at Stansted and customers will be transferred to Luton by coach when cleared to do so.”
The airline did not give further details of the hoax or confirm initial reports of a suspect package on board.
The alert caused jets from the RAF's Quick Reaction Alert station in Coningsby, Lincolnshire, to be scrambled.
Residents on the planes' path reported a sonic boom, with many calling Suffolk Police to report "loud bangs".
An RAF spokesperson said: “The RAF can confirm Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this morning from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft.
"The aircraft was safely escorted to Stansted Airport. The Typhoon aircraft were authorised to transit at supersonic speed for operational reasons; any inconvenience caused to local residents is regretted.”
The incident caused flights to Stansted to be briefly held but the airport is now open and operating normally.
Essex Police said the plane landed safely at 8.55am and passengers were being taken off.
"The runway was closed for a short time but has now reopened," a spokesperson added. "Police are on the scene and enquiries are ongoing."
