East London:Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that a reported bomb threat involving FlySafair flight FA388 was successfully de-escalated at King Phalo Airport in East London, Eastern Cape. The incident unfolded when Passenger Services received a bomb threat call concerning the flight at 0759 on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.
According to South African Government News Agency, the terminal supervisor and airport security were immediately notified, leading to the activation of established security protocols. ACSA Acting CEO Charles Shilowa assured travellers and airport users that the situation was effectively managed by all relevant authorities and that all passengers and crew were safe.
The coordinated response involved ACSA operational teams, the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Fire Chief, the bomb squad, the South African Police Service, and other relevant authorities through the Emergency Control Centre. Emergency protocols were in place by the time the aircraft landed, with necessary personnel, emergency vehicles, and the bomb squad positioned in a designated isolation area away from the terminal to conduct security checks.
At 0938, passengers were authorized to disembark, and a comprehensive explosives-detection sweep was conducted following aviation procedures, airport safety requirements, and SAPS protocols. The incident was resolved by 1058, allowing airport operations to continue smoothly. Business continuity plans were activated to ensure there was no further risk to lives.
ACSA has urged the public, travellers, and airport users to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or unattended items to airport security or staff members. Public cooperation is emphasized for maintaining a secure airport environment, and ACSA remains committed to safety at its facilities.