Screenshot: ABC News

A transatlantic American Airlines flight with 285 passengers aboard was forced to divert to Rome on Sunday following a “possible security issue,” leading to a dramatic military escort by fighter jets, as captured in shocking video footage circulating online.

American Airlines Flight 292, which departed from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, was originally bound for Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, India, according to Time of India.

However, in mid-flight, the aircraft was suddenly rerouted to Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Rome.

American Airlines said in a statement to ABC News that the flight was diverted due to a “possible security issue.” Multiple news media reported that there was a bomb threat.

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Airport officials corroborated the safe landing in a statement to ABC News, though details surrounding the incident remain scarce.

“Safety and security are our top priorities, and we thank our customers for their understanding,” American Airlines said in a brief statement. The airline has not yet elaborated on the specific nature of the “possible security issue” that prompted the mid-flight rerouting.

Screenshot

Here’s a video captured by X user Andrea, showing American Airlines Flight 292 making a safe landing at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Rome.

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According to Italian news outlet Corriere Della Sera:

“The American Airlines flight was landed in a remote area of ​​Fiumicino airport . Once all the passengers had disembarked, the bomb squad and the Polaria staff arrived. It has been learned that canine units will also be used to comb through every part of the plane, starting from the hold containing the luggage.”

This is a developing story.

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