Passengers rescreened, flights delayed after potential security breach at Auckland Airport

A potential security breach at Auckland Airport this afternoon resulted in passengers on a flight being rescreened.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said an aircraft had to return to the gate at the domestic terminal after a passenger entered the secure departure area through an exit door before boarding

As a precaution, passengers were disembarked and rescreened, and the aircraft was searched before being returned to service.

Some flights were delayed while these procedures were completed.

"This incident was not the result of a failure in Aviation Security screening processes. Initial enquiries indicate the passenger gained access to the secure area by using an exit door," a CAA spokesperson said.

"Working alongside airport and airline staff, Aviation Security officers needed to make sure the area was secure before normal operations could resume.

"The safety and security of passengers remains our priority."

Enquiries were ongoing.

An Auckland Airport spokesperson said passengers from one domestic flight were rescreened by Aviation Security after a potential security breach.

"No other flights were impacted. Safety and security are our priority and we thank travellers for their patience," they said.

"The matter was referred to New Zealand Police."