Security concerns at Calgary International Airport on Wednesday prompted the cancellation of WestJet flight WS610, which was scheduled to fly from Calgary to Ottawa. The flight, originally set to depart at 10:45 AM, encountered delays due to what was described as a security issue, leading airline and airport authorities to take immediate action.
"We can confirm flight WS610 was initially delayed due to a security concern needing full investigation. The flight has now been cancelled, and guests are being reaccommodated," said WestJet spokesperson Jen Booth. The airline worked closely with airport officials and external agencies to manage the situation and communicate with affected travelers as new information became available.
Although details about the specific nature of the security threat remained scarce, it was clear from various reports of heightened airport security during the incident. Passengers expressed surprise as officers, some dressed in fatigues and accompanied by sniffer dogs, boarded the aircraft. Jacqueline, one of the passengers, recounted her experience, stating, "We were just in the jetway, and then literally, as we were about to climb on the plane—they didn’t tell us why, they just said we had to go back up the gangway." She noted the situation entailed thorough security checks including rescans and bomb tests for departing passengers.
Another passenger, Josh Triemstra, described the tense atmosphere as waiting passengers witnessed the heavy police presence. "I figured it was just an unruly passenger—next thing you know, you see sniffer dogs outside the plane walking up the ramp." Triemstra recounted how passengers were asked to line up and show ID and boarding passes, as well as having their hand luggage re-screened amid extensive security measures.
Late Wednesday afternoon, the Calgary Airport Authority issued updates confirming the security alert had ended without any imminent danger to the public. They stated, "The Calgary Airport Authority appreciates the patience of our guests, staff, and partners as authorities responded to the security incident at YYC Calgary International Airport today. While the investigation is still active, there is no active threat, and airport operations remain steady with minimal impact to travelers." They also thanked first responders and law enforcement for their swift response and commitment to safety.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) collaborated with Calgary police to manage the incident. According to Cpl. Gina Slaney, the police took all necessary steps to maintain public safety, adding, "We are taking all necessary steps to assure safety. No additional details are available at this time as the situation remains under investigation."
Despite the anxiety among passengers, the thorough response by law enforcement and airport officials allowed for minimal disruption beyond the immediate cancellation of the flight. Travelers were being assisted with rebooking and accommodations as needed, with WestJet emphasizing their priority was ensuring guests were safely on their way, as noted by spokesperson Jen Booth.
Reports suggested passengers were waiting for hours during the security checks before being informed of the final cancellation, leaving some to scramble for alternative travel arrangements. Many took to social media to vent their frustrations, highlighting how the delays would impact their travel plans.
This incident at Calgary International Airport has underscored the importance of stringent security measures and prompt responses during threatening situations, whether they stem from credible threats or mere precautionary reasons. With travel security remaining at the forefront since the onset of the pandemic and various global conflicts, incidents like these create both tension and reminders of the vigilance needed to safeguard public safety.
The investigation continues, and passengers are encouraged to remain aware of any updates from WestJet and airport authorities as they facilitate the rebooking process for those impacted. Observers and travelers alike are left to reflect on how swiftly authorities can act and the level of preparedness demonstrated during these security-related emergencies.