Originally Posted by
Dont Hang Up
A managed diversion, fully coordinated between flight-deck and ATC, albeit for a security reason. No suspected interference with the actual progress of the flight. Why the need for a costly RAF escort? Indeed, if we are talking about balancing risks, then a fifteen minute hold, keeping the aircraft in the air for longer than necessary was exposing those on board to unnecessary additional risk.
The escort might be there to witness a possible explosion, if the bomb was activated by an increase in pressure on landing. If the outcome would be a hole in the cargo hold, a fighter pilot would be able to tell the commercial pilot the extent of the damage, with the hopes that the plane was still under control. Sure, this scenario might be unlikely, but why not prepare for it anyway, and be safe rather than sorry?