Australian airports have increased their security measures after the country’s authorities foiled a terrorist plot to “bring down” an aircraft.
Police arrested four men in Sydney on Saturday after receiving a tip-off about an “Islamist-inspired” terrorist plan to attack the country’s aviation sector using an “improvised device”.
Airports in Australia have advised passengers to arrive earlier than usual for their flights because of the enhanced security procedures.
Transport minister Darren Chester said that additional cabin and hold luggage checks have been introduced across major airports in Australia.
Melbourne airport said in a tweet: “We have implemented additional security measures and travellers should arrive at least two hours prior to flights.”
Passengers have also been advised to limit the amount of carry-on luggage and hold bags to speed up the security process. Although so far there have been no changes to what passengers are permitted to bring onboard aircraft.