At Pulkovo airport, a passenger became a source of alarm after claiming that the plane was a bomb threat. The incident occurred as he feared an almost nine-hour journey to Vladivostok and tried to find a moment of courage before boarding the aircraft. In a bar near the gate, the individual, a 59-year-old resident of St. Petersburg, sought to steady his nerves but ended up drinking too much prior to the flight on the Boeing 777.
As the plane prepared for departure, his mounting anxiety intensified. Once aboard, he announced that he had concealed an explosive device on the aircraft and warned that it would be detonated. His outburst prompted immediate concern among passengers and crew alike, and security was alerted to the threat in order to ensure everyone on board remained safe.
Law enforcement and airport security swiftly intervened. The aircraft, carrying 230 passengers and six crew members, underwent a thorough search of all sections, including the cabin and luggage holds. No dangerous items were discovered, and the flight could continue toward its destination without incident.
Following the incident, the individual was handed over to police authorities. A formal administrative offense report was prepared, and authorities considered measures to detain him for a period of up to 15 days pending further proceedings. The episode underscored the significant disruption that a single erroneous act can cause in air travel and the potential consequences for the offender.
In the aftermath, the flight crew and officials documented the events to prevent recurrence and to reassure concerned passengers. Reports indicated that, despite the scare, the flight reached its Vladivostok destination without further incident, and the safety protocols in place functioned as intended. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior in the secure environment of air travel and the immediate actions required when a potential threat arises.