Unexploded WWII bomb closes London City Airport

The bomb, found near a dock, causes flights disruptions and roads closures, as experts are trying to defuse the device.

The airport remained closed today, as its representatives declared that flight disruptions are expected for both inbound and outbound flights until the experts finish their job. Moreover, all roads in the vicinity of the terminal are closed until further notice.

"The airport remains closed this morning following the discovery of a World War Two ordnance in King George V Dock on Sunday," declared Robert Sinclair, LCA’s CEO.

Officials at the airport in collaboration with the Metropolitan Police and the Royal Navy are currently working together to “remove the device and resolve the situation as quickly as possible", while maintaining public safety. Nearby properties were also evacuated by the Police, while Newham Council offered temporary accommodation for the residents.

The bomb in the River Thames was discovered on Sunday morning. Its nature was confirmed by specialists in the Royal Navy.

“All flights in and out of London City on Monday are cancelled and an exclusion zone is in place in the immediate area. I urge any passengers due to fly today not to come to the airport and to contact their airline for further information. I recognize this is causing inconvenience for our passengers, and in particular some of our local residents,” added Sinclair.

More than 16.000 passengers were affected by the discovery, as more than 250 flights will be disrupted by the operations.

 

Source: ft.com