In recent days, bomb threats directed against aircraft and airports have repeatedly caused evacuations and closed airports. Fortunately, so far these have all turned out to be false alarms. The authors, if they can be identified, face severe criminal consequences.

Airport and aviation security is a top priority, especially given the threat of bomb threats. Airport operators, police, security authorities and secret services work closely together to take efficient measures in such cases. This article explains the steps and procedures taken when dealing with bomb threats and discusses the jurisdictions and laws in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The role of explosives dogs and the criminal consequences for bomb threats are also discussed.

Steps to take in the event of bomb threats at airports and in air transport

Receiving the threat: Bomb threats can come in a variety of ways, including telephone calls, emails, written messages, or social media. The first challenge is to assess the seriousness of the threat.

Informing the authorities: The airport operator immediately informs the local police and security authorities about the bomb threat received. In Germany, Austria and Switzerland these are usually the federal police or the cantonal police.

Evacuation and security measures: If a bomb threat is deemed credible, evacuation measures will be taken. This includes clearing terminals, aircraft and other vulnerable areas. At the same time, security checks will be strengthened and air traffic will be temporarily suspended.

Experts and explosives dogs: Specialized units, including bomb defusers and explosives dogs, are called in. The experts are able to identify suspicious objects and, if necessary, defuse them. Explosives dogs assist in the search for explosives.

Communication and crisis management: Airport operators and security authorities are working closely with airlines and other relevant bodies to coordinate communications to passengers and manage the situation.

Investigation and investigation: After evacuating and defusing possible explosive devices, law enforcement begins a criminal investigation to identify the source of the bomb threat and hold those responsible accountable.

These authorities and experts are needed in the event of a threat

In Germany, the Federal Police is responsible for security at airports. The bomb defusers and explosives dogs are specially trained units within the federal police. The training of these experts includes intensive training in explosive detection, defusing techniques and crisis management.

In Austria, responsibility for security at airports lies with the federal police and the respective state police departments. Here, too, there are specialized bomb defusers and explosives dogs who undergo appropriate training.

In Switzerland, the cantonal police are responsible for security at airports. Specialized units, including bomb defusers and explosives dogs, are also integrated into the cantonal police and are carefully trained.

There is a risk of harsh criminal consequences

Bomb threats are punishable by law in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The penalties for people who threaten airports and airlines with bombs can be significant. The exact punishment ranges and legal provisions vary, but they can result in prison sentences of several years.

In Germany, bomb threats can be punished, among other things, under Section 126 of the Criminal Code (disturbing the public peace by threatening criminal offenses) and Section 223 of the Criminal Code (bodily injury). In Austria, bomb threats are prosecuted under Section 278b of the Criminal Code (disruption of public life through severe coercion) and other relevant paragraphs. In Switzerland, bomb threats are punishable as serious coercion according to Article 181 of the Swiss Penal Code.

Unattended luggage at airports

Unattended baggage at airports also poses a serious security threat. In all three countries, bags left unattended by their owners are treated as suspicious. Airport operators use loudspeaker announcements and security personnel to find the owner of the luggage. If the owner does not respond or is unable to collect their luggage, security measures will be taken.

Such measures may include evacuation and defusing of baggage by specialized units. Unattended luggage is considered potentially dangerous and the consequences for the person who leaves it unattended can range from a fine to criminal prosecution if the action is intentional.