A major security alert was declared at the airport earlier today. The jet landed in Belfast at 8.48am on Thursday. The plane had arrived from London Stanstead and was soon surrounded by emergency services on landing.

       According to the Belfast Telegraph, ambulances were seen arriving at approximately 9am.

       Police dog units also boarded the plane as it was stationed outside the terminal.

       An easyJet spokesperson told Express.co.uk the flight from Belfast International to Edinburgh was delayed due to additional security checks.

       Despite the checks, the spokesperson claimed it was only as part of wider precautions.

       They added: "The safety and security of its passengers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority and we would like to thank passengers for their understanding."

       The PSNI also confirmed to this website they had attended the scene to provide support to airport police.

       A spokeswoman for Belfast airport told Express.co.uk: "Belfast International Airport was notified of a security alert regarding a flight to Edinburgh this morning.

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       "As is standard procedure, the relevant authorities attended the airport as a precautionary measure.

       "All passengers disembarked for additional security checks and have since reboarded and the flight has departed.

       "Passenger safety is a priority and we thank all passengers for their understanding."

       The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said it was called to a potential incident at 8.39am.

       According to Belfast Live, the service stood down at 9.30am.

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       A Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) spokesman added: “At 8.34am today NIFRS was called to assist with an incident at Belfast International Airport.

       "No action was required from NIFRS and the incident was stood down at 10.22am.”

       While not connected, a seperate flight was held after landing in Belfast on September 27.

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       The jet was held for two hours while police officers inspected it.

       The airline later confirmed the flight from London Gatwick to Belfast was subject to additional security checks.

       A statement read: "The safety of passengers and staff is our highest priority and we apologise for the inconvenience this delay caused."

       Belfast International Airport has been approached for comment by Express.co.uk.