Air Mauritius Flight Returns to Melbourne After "Suspicious" Item Found On Board

On Wednesday, Air Mauritius flight MK 943 left Melbourne Tullamarine airport at 13:35 (local Melbourne time) with 181 passengers and 13 crew members on board.

Shortly after takeoff, the captain was informed of a suspicious item on board, and in accordance with safety procedures, he took the decision to return to Melbourne. The aircraft landed safely at 14:55 (local time).

In a statement issued by Victoria Police, the item was described as a "soft drink can with the word BOMB written on it".

All passengers disembarked and were transferred to the airport terminal under the supervision of the Australian authorities. Arrangements were then made for the transfer of all passengers to an airport lounge where they could rest and were offered refreshments.

Once police clearance was obtained, arrangements were made to accommodate passengers overnight at hotels in Melbournes.

The flight will now operate today (24 May 2012) as MK 3943, leaving Melbourne at 11:30 and reaching Mauritius at 16:55 (local time).

Australian authorities are carrying out further investigations in Melbourne.

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