NZ flight passengers could face delay after terror threat

New Zealand travellers flying to and from London in the next few days could face long delays at airports after British police foiled an alleged plot to blow up aircraft in mid-flight.

Police have arrested 15 people.

Following the arrests, security at all British airports was increased and additional security measures put in place.

Air New Zealand general manager of operations John Whittaker said it was possible there may be some flight delays due to the increased security measures implemented by the Department for Transport in the United Kingdom.

"Therefore, we strongly encourage customers travelling to and from London to monitor arrival and departure times on the Air New Zealand website or to stay in contact with their booking agent.

"Likewise, we would encourage customers travelling from Heathrow to Los Angeles or Auckland to arrive for their flight up to four hours before departure because it is likely checking in could be slower than normal due to heightened security measures in the airport environment," Mr Whittaker said.

British Airways have said no hand baggage would be allowed on any of its planes leaving British airports.

It said no electrical or battery powered items would be allowed in the cabin, including laptops and mobile phones.

British Airports Authority said all passengers on flights to the United States would be subject to a secondary search at the boarding gate and all liquids would also be removed.

- NZPA