A MAN accused of carrying a pipe bomb in hand luggage at Manchester Airport has appeared in court.

Nadeem Muhammed, of Tinline Street, Bury, is charged with possessing an improvised explosive device following a security alert at the airport.

The 43-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday, when it was alleged that, on January 30, he had a pipe bomb in his hand luggage as he attempted to board a flight.

He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address with the help of an interpreter.

Katie McCreath, defending, indicated that he would be pleading not guilty to the charge at a future hearing.

Muhammed, a Pakistani national, was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Southwark Crown Court on 13 March, although the court heard the case is likely to be transferred to Manchester.

Jessica Hart, prosecuting, said the case would not be proceeding under terrorism protocol.

Prior to Muhammed's appearance in court, Greater Manchester Police said a man was stopped at the airport after a suspicious package was identified passing through security.

The court heard the device was viable and that it appeared to consist of batteries wrapped in brown tape with wires sticking out.