In-flight stabbing: how the drama unfolded

7.20am: Scheduled departure of NZ2279 from Blenheim to Christchurch

7.40am: Mayday call from pilots received via the NZ Rescue Coordination Centre. A female passenger is reported to have attacked the pilots

8.06am: Plane lands safely at Christchurch

Passengers exit the plane and run for safety

Police Armed Offender Squad dog handlers enter the plane and seize the woman. She is handcuffed and forced to the ground on the runway

The plane is cordoned off

9am: Bomb squad arrives at the scene

Mid-morning: Police in Blenheim make background checks on the woman

Passengers are questioned by police

10.03am: police and Transport Minister Annette King calls for a report from NZ Police and the Aviation Security Service

10.30am: Police reveal details about the woman. She is 33 and from Blenheim

11.07am: Airport re-opens. International terminal used for domestic flights

- NZ HERALD STAFF