Brussels terror attacks – latest updates

Brussels was in lock down this morning following terrorist attacks on the city’s Zaventum International airport and a metro station that left more than 21 people killed and up to 100 injured.

A suicide bomber or bombers reportedly detonated devices inside the airport’s main terminal close to the Delta Air Lines check-in counter.

The US airline issued the following statement in the wake of the attack: “This morning (at approximately 8.15 am local time) two explosions have been reported in the departures area of Brussels Airport in Belgium. The airport has been evacuated and is now closed with local emergency services onsite. Local leaders have confirmed the safety of all crew members and ground employees. The airport team is in the process of confirming the safety of all customers.

Delta’s flight DL80 from Atlanta to Brussels has landed safely at the airport and is parked remotely, with the local team working on plans to safely deplane passengers to a secure holding area. Delta’s flight DL42 from New York to Brussels has been diverted to Amsterdam.”

At the city’s Maelbeek Metro Station, which is situated close to the European Union headquarters, more than 15 people perished in an attack.

In a press conference, Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel described the attacks as “blind, violent and cowardly”, saying they were a “tragic moment in our country’s history”.

He called on the people of Belgium to “show calmness and solidarity”.

In London, Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan police counter-terrorism chief, said in statement that additional security had been deployed as a precaution.

“As a precaution forces across the UK have increased policing presence at key locations, including transport hubs, to protect the public and provide reassurance. This is not in relation to any specific information or intelligence.

“In London specifically, the Metropolitan Police Service has mobilised additional officers, who will carry out highly visible patrols at key locations around the Capital including the transport network. The number of officers deployed will be regularly assessed. These additional officers are deployed as part of reassurance measures.”

UPDATE 11.45am: ABTA has issued the following statement following the Brussels attacks:

“Following explosions in Brussels on 22 March, travellers in Brussels are advised to follow the instructions of Belgian security authorities. People who are due to travel should contact their airline or travel company for information about travel to and from Brussels.

“Belgium is at threat level 3, indicating a possible and real threat. Just as in the UK where the terrorism threat level is severe, travellers should remain alert and vigilant, especially in places where there is a high concentration of people, as advised by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO). The FCO also recommends that travellers should follow the advice of local authorities and respect security controls and that people in Brussels should stay away from crowded places and avoid public transport at this time.

“Belgium is a popular destination for UK visitors, though March is one of the quieter months for leisure travel.”

UPDATE 12.20pm: Heathrow has confirmed it has upped security in all terminals following the Brussels attacks:

A Heathrow spokesperson said: “We take the safety and security of our passengers and colleagues very seriously. In the light of events in Brussels airport, we are working with the police at Heathrow who are providing a high visibility presence. We expect flights to Brussels Airport to be affected and ask passengers travelling there to check their flight status with their airline.”