A suspicious package temporarily disrupted air traffic at Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport on Wednesday, leading to reduced flight operations. However, airport activities have since returned to normal after two individuals were arrested in connection with the incident. Eric Forest, spokesperson for Aéroports de Montréal, confirmed that the investigation by local authorities found the situation to be unfounded. The identification of a suspicious suitcase aboard an incoming flight prompted the activation of standard security measures to ensure passenger safety and facility security.
At the peak of the incident, one of the airport’s runways was closed, causing a reduction in incoming flights. However, operations resumed as both runways were reopened, and authorities confirmed there was no threat to passengers. The disruption had caused delays for some domestic and international flights, with the American Federal Aviation Authority implementing a temporary ground stop for flights destined for Montreal. This measure was later downgraded to a ground delay due to airport volume.
Transport Canada acknowledged the incident involving Air Canada but provided no further details, stating that officials were coordinating with local authorities and the airline. Despite earlier reports citing a bomb threat, a spokesperson for the Quebec provincial police clarified that there was no such threat.