RAF Coningsby jets scrambled in security alerts

Typhoon fighter jets from RAF Coningsby were scrambled twice last week in security alerts.
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On Tuesday (Feb 7) they escorted a Pakistan International Airlines passenger flight, which had been diverted from Heathrow, to Stanstead Airport.

A man was subsequently arrested on a charge of fraud.

According to police, Khalid Baqa, of Priory Road, Barking, east London, was due to have beeen arrested on arrival at Heathrow but was instead detained at Stansted. The 52-year-old, a UK national, has been charged with committing fraud by false representation and has been bailed to appear at court in London on February 23.

The following day, Coningsby jets were in action again to monitor two Russian Air Force bombers which were flying close to UK air space.

The two incidents are the latest in a long line of missions for Typhoons based at Coningsby.

Speaking in the House of Commons, local MP Victoria Atkins recently praised the courage and commitment of pilots at Coningsby and highlighted the importance of the base.