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An EasyJet spokesperson told the BBC its ground crew had to ensure non-checked bags were within maximum dimensions "to safely and securely fit", and that rules were made clear to customers when they booked.

Dutifully, I handed my passport and boarding pass to a member of BA ground crew, who glanced at them both and waved me through.

However, once the passengers were on board, a ground crew member advised the departing helicopter pilot that the airspace was clear.

Footage published by Australian outlet 7News showed the suspect being restrained by a passenger, while a member of ground crew and a pilot removed a utility belt containing tools that the suspect was carrying.

Even with more than 10,000 firefighters battling the flames, ground crews in L.A. have said they were overwhelmed, and planes that spray fire retardant were often hamstrung by the winds.