DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – The United Arab Emirates’ national airline said on Tuesday that it is working with Australian police in their investigation into an attempted airplane attack, suggesting it may have been a potential target.
Australian authorities have said they thwarted a credible terrorist plot to down an airplane by smuggling a device onboard. They have provided few details, including the precise nature of the threat or any airlines involved.
Etihad Airways, the smallest of three long-haul Gulf carriers that fly to Australia, confirmed its involvement in the probe in a brief statement.
“The Etihad Airways aviation security (AVSEC) team is assisting the Australian Federal Police (AFP) with its investigation and the matter is ongoing,” it said. “Etihad is complying fully with the enhanced security measures at airports in Australia and monitoring the situation closely. Safety is the airline’s number one priority.”
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier refused to elaborate on its role in the probe or confirm whether one of its planes was targeted.