A search operation at Birmingham Airport concluded after a suspicious item was discovered on a flight bound for Belfast.

The airport’s operations were affected for nearly 2 hours as the plane was diverted back to Birmingham just after 4 pm following take-off.

Passengers and crew were safely evacuated while specialist officers, including the dog unit, searched the aircraft.

The incident is now being dealt as a false call with very good intent and the item is not suspicious.

Police said:

The plane was diverted shortly after take-off and landed back at Birmingham airport just after 4pm. All passengers and crew were evacuated safely and specialist officers including the dog unit searched the plane.

The safety of all was our primary concern and there is no wider risk to the public and the airport re-opened at 6pm.

We would like to thank the public for their patience and support while we dealt with this incident.