No Injuries, No Cancellations: FlySafair Confirms Safe Landing After Morning Security Scare
A FlySafair flight carrying 182 passengers and six crew members was met by a multi-disciplinary security response team at King Phalo Airport on Wednesday morning, 21 October 2026, after the airline was alerted to a potential security threat.
The aircraft, operating as flight FA388 from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport to East London, completed its journey and landed safely at 08:49, according to a statement issued by the low-cost carrier. All passengers have since disembarked unharmed.
FlySafair confirmed it was informed of the threat before the aircraft’s arrival and said relevant authorities were notified immediately. The statement added that the airline is “cooperating fully” with investigators.
Aircraft Held Under Standard Protocols
The development follows a media statement from the Office of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Commissioner for the Eastern Cape, which confirmed that a multi-disciplinary response team was deployed to the scene. The aircraft is being held as part of standard security protocols while the scene is managed by authorities, with support from King Phalo Airport management.
FlySafair said there had been no flight cancellations as a result of the incident, and all other operations were continuing as normal.
Airline Thanks Crew and Passengers
In its statement, the airline praised its staff for handling the situation “calmly and in line with established safety and security procedures,” while apologising to travellers for any inconvenience.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the South African Police Service, King Phalo Airport and all the emergency and security teams on site for their swift and professional response,” the statement read.
Investigation Ongoing
Details about the nature or origin of the threat have not been released. FlySafair said it could not comment further while the matter remains an active investigation, directing enquiries to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana.
The airline closed its statement with a reassurance that has become familiar language in aviation security incidents: “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority.”
