It's understood that no suspicious device was found on-board the plane.
A US-bound flight that was redirected to Shannon Airport on Monday afternoon following the discovery of a suspicious note on board, has been handed back to the airline following extensive searches.
United Airlines flight UA-971 was travelling from Rome to Chicago when it was diverted to Shannon at 2.15pm following the discovery of a message.
It's understood that the note was related to an apparent bomb threat.
Upon being diverted, passengers disembarked the aircraft to be searched. The plane was also searched thoroughly as well as passengers' luggage. It's believed that 214 passengers and crew were on board at the time.
Following extensive searches by ground staff, Gardaí and emergency services staff, it was confirmed that no suspicious device had been located on board the aircraft.
Gardaí confirmed the news, stating: "Searches have been completed and the plane has been handed back to the airline."
The airline confirmed the flight diverted because of a "potential security concern", declining to comment further.
"After assessing the situation our crew made the decision to divert to the nearest available airport," the airline said.
"Additional security screenings will be performed on all customers and baggage, and we will work to get customers on their way to Chicago as quickly as possible."
Following the discovery, Monday's flight was cancelled and passengers were sent to local hotels for the evening.
The aircraft is currently scheduled to depart Tuesday at 3pm.
