Flights were grounded at Stansted Airport because of a security alert in Lithuania.

Authorities in Lithuania received reports of a security alert regarding a Ryanair flight from Kaunas to London Luton. 

At the same time, Suffolk Police said a loud bang heard across nearby Suffolk was because of a sonic boom produced by a military aircraft.

Ryanair confirmed one of its flights was escorted to the airport.

A spokesman said: "This flight from Kaunas to London Luton diverted to London Stansted in line with procedures after Lithuanian authorities received a suspected hoax security alert.

"The aircraft landed normally at Stansted and customers will be transferred to Luton by coach when cleared to do so.”

Gazette:

Photo by @AndyLonghurstUK

Stansted Airport called the delay a 'momentary pause' and said the flight landed safely at 8.50am.

A spokesman said: "The aircraft, which was flying from Kaunas to Luton, landed safely with Essex Police in attendance.

"Flights were briefly held while RAF Typhoons escorted the plane in.

"All flights are now operating as normal. It was literally a momentary
pause."

"The airport is open and flights are arriving and departing as normal."

Update 10am: 

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "A Ryanair flight from Kaunas, Lithuania to Luton Airport has been diverted to Stansted Airport following reports of a security alert.

"The plane landed safely at around 8.55am and passengers being are safely brought off.

"The runway was closed for a short time but has now re-opened.
Police are on scene and enquiries are ongoing."

A spokesman for the RAF said: "The RAF can confirm Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon aircraft were launched this morning from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft.

"The aircraft was safely escorted to Stansted airport. The Typhoon aircraft were authorised to transit at supersonic speed for operational reasons; any inconvenience caused to local residents is regretted.”

Updated 11am:

Nothing suspicious has been found. 

Chief Inspector Richard Phillibrown, of Essex Police, said: "We take all intelligence received regarding potential threats to public safety very seriously.

"The safety of the public is paramount.

"I want to thank Stansted Airport and all the passengers and crew involved for their patience and cooperation."