New Zealand Defence Force bomb squad was deployed to Queenstown Airport to investigate a suspicious device that turned out to be a ski boot warmer. The Zealand Herald reports the incident sparked evacuations and lockdowns at the airport after a “potential security threat item” was detected by Aviation Security during routine baggage screening.
Multiple flights were cancelled and about 250 travelers were taken to Queenstown Events Centre as the bomb squad secured the scene. Queenstown Airport chief executive Glen Sowry said the device was packed next to a computer inside the bag and it appeared “highly suspicious and risky.”
The New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit arrived and assessed the baggage which appeared to contain an explosive device and determined the item posed no threat.
Word to the wise if you plan on air travel with boot warmers, don’t pack them next to any other electronic device, maybe forewarn airport security that you have them or just leave them at home.