RAF Typhoons escort Kenya Airways flight to Stansted Airport

RAF Typhoons have escorted a Kenya Airways flight to Stansted Airport after there was a "potential security threat on board".

A statement from the airline said "headquarters received an alert of a potential security threat on board KO100 operating from Nairobi to London Heathrow".

"KQ management, in conjunction with the security authorities of the Government of Kenya and the United Kingdom, carried out a thorough risk assessment of the threat," the statement said.

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"The crew onboard were briefed and all safety and security precautions were taken to ensure the safety and security of our crew and passengers on board.

"The aircraft landed safely at the Stansted airport, London for security clearance by U.K government security personnel."

The flight from Nairobi was diverted to Stansted from Heathrow, with the RAF Quick Reaction Alert jets from RAF Coningsby escorting the airliner to the airport in Essex.

A Ministry of Defence (MOD) spokesperson said: "RAF Typhoon fighter aircraft from RAF Coningsby were launched as a precaution this afternoon to investigate a civilian aircraft which was approaching the UK.

"The civilian aircraft remained in contact with air traffic controllers throughout, and was escorted to Stansted Airport where it landed safely.

"This incident is now under the control of the civilian authorities."

The RAF jets have since returned to their Lincolnshire base.

Essex Police said: "We are currently attending an incident at #Stansted Airport.

A flight travelling from Nairobi to Heathrow was diverted to Stansted this afternoon (Thursday 12 October).

"The airport remains open."