On the morning of March 5, 2025, Jersey Airport experienced significant disruption as authorities evacuated the facility due to a reported security incident, which has since been identified as a bomb threat. Around 6:30 AM GMT, armed police were deployed to the scene, and approximately 300 passengers were evacuated from the airport grounds, prompting widespread confusion and disturbance.
Initial reports suggest the alarms at the airport sounded, leading to what witnesses initially thought was merely a fire alarm. Passengers were quickly moved to the car park to await more information. One passenger, Rena Dunphy, recounted her experience: "I got through security and at about 06:30 GMT the alarm started going off. They just got everyone out to assembly points, kept us there for roughly half an hour and then they got everyone out of the assembly points and to the car parks." After evacuations were completed, Dunphy stated, "more than 100 people had chosen to wait at the nearby Strive Health Club, including members of airport staff." This center, along with the police, opened their doors to those affected, and evacuees were advised to either go home or wait there for updates.
Jersey Airport officials confirmed the evacuation, stating through their official channels, "The airport has been evacuated due to a security incident, and we are working with States of Jersey Police to manage the incident. Airport operations are currently suspended. We advise passengers to contact their airlines for updates." The airport's management emphasized their commitment to passenger safety and acknowledged the inconvenience caused.
Passengers reported feelings of disbelief and surprise. George Bridger, who was at the airport for a stag do traveling to Dublin, reflected on the situation saying, "It was a bit of a surprise; I think a lot of people were confused if it was just a training exercise. But it soon became apparent it was serious. Armed police arrived, fire trucks and lots of police vehicles turned up at the airport." Meanwhile, Victoria Ruellan, another passenger, expressed her frustration after being unable to access the airport for her scheduled flight: "We got to the airport an hour and a half before but we couldn't enter as it was blocked off...which again doesn’t really tell us anything. We’ve got to be at Gatwick for 11:40 at the latest, we don’t think we’re going to make it."
Reports confirmed by the States of Jersey Police indicated all islanders had been safely evacuated. Authorities recommended avoiding the airport due to the potential duration of the disruption, leading to cancellations and delays for all flights until the incident could be fully resolved. A police spokesperson thanked the public for their patience and cooperation as investigations continued.
Just after the alarms were first activated, passengers described chaotic scenes with families and individuals awaiting instructions. Many were still reeling from the unexpected disruption. One witness noted, "We were evacuated to a locked area because we were all airside. Then after about half an hour, we were evacuated to the car park where we met the police who said, 'There has been some sort of bomb threat; everywhere is going to be searched, you need to leave the car parks.'"
The reassurance from police about their efforts to clear the incident and the implementation of secure measures was conveyed amid rising anxiety among those at the scene. With emergency personnel managing the rapidly developing situation, local authorities turned their focus on ensuring every passenger was accounted for and safe.
While the Port of Jersey issued instructions to avoid the area, many evacuees directed attention to their communications with airlines for updates on flight statuses. Passengers like Rena Dunphy appreciated the assistance from nearby Strive, stating "it was comforting to have somewhere to wait rather than just standing outside the airport completely clueless." The situation reflects not just the need for effective emergency responses but also the compassion and organization from local entities to assist those affected during stressful incidents.
With officials continuing their investigation of the circumstances surrounding the reported threat, Jersey Airport remains closed for the day. Passengers are advised to stay informed through local media and direct airline communications. A spokesperson for the airport elaborated, "We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the cooperation and the patience of everyone involved during this time. Our top priority is ensuring the safety and security of everyone at the airport." Further updates from the airport authorities and police are expected as they continue to navigate this incident.
The event has raised questions about public safety and security at airports within the region, and it remains to be seen how this incident will shape policies and procedures going forward. For now, passengers and their families continue to await credible information and guidance during this unsettling interruption to travel plans.