Hoax bomb threats have wreaked havoc for airlines in India, causing significant panic and disruptions. Over the last two days, multiple flights faced delays and diversions due to these threats, prompting security alerts and investigations.
Hoax bomb threats have wreaked havoc for airlines in India, causing significant panic and disruptions. Over the last two days, multiple flights faced delays and diversions due to these threats, prompting security alerts and investigations.
In the recent days, a series of hoax bomb threats targeting Indian airlines have instigated widespread fear and caused major disruptions within the aviation sector. These threats have led to multiple flight delays, diversions, and heightened security measures across several airports.
On Tuesday, Singapore's Air Force dispatched two fighter jets to safely escort an Air India Express plane away from densely populated areas after a bomb threat was reported. Just a few hours earlier, a precautionary landing was made by an Air India flight traveling from Delhi to Chicago, which diverted to a Canadian airport due to a similar threat.
In total, at least ten flights in India faced bomb threats within a mere 48-hour period. While hoax threats are not uncommon, the rapid rise in incidents has caught the attention of authorities. Wednesday saw no response from officials at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation or the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security regarding inquiries about the situation.
In addition to Air India, several other airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, have also reported receiving threats. On Monday, three international flights departing from Mumbai experienced diversions or delays due to threats posted on social media. A teenager has since been detained in connection with these allegations.
Tuesday's incidents led to disruptions in seven flights, encompassing two Air India aircraft. The threats were communicated via another social media handle, which has since been suspended. Many posts were observed tagging both the airlines and local police, along with specific flight numbers.
In response to these incidents, Air India publicly stated its commitment to cooperate fully with investigative authorities. They also mentioned the possibility of pursuing legal actions against those found responsible for the threats, focusing on recovering associated costs.
At each Indian airport, a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee is tasked with evaluating the severity of threats. The procedures typically involve deploying bomb disposal teams, sniffer dogs, ambulances, and law enforcement personnel. Passengers are evacuated along with their baggage, which undergoes screening again. The aircraft itself is subjected to thorough inspections by engineering and security staff before being cleared for travel.
The financial repercussions of these delays can amount to thousands of dollars for airlines and involved security agencies. Additionally, when incidents involve international flights, agencies from other countries may become involved, amplifying the complexity of the situation, as seen recently with Singapore and Canada.
On Tuesday, Singapore’s Defense Minister reported that two fighter jets had been scrambled to escort the Air India Express plane, ensuring its safe landing at Changi Airport after its journey from Madurai. Following the landing, the matter was handed over to local airport police for further investigation.
In Canada, the Air India flight that landed in Iqaluit was met by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, who are actively investigating the bomb threat. Meanwhile, a Canadian Air Force plane has transported the passengers to Chicago, leaving uncertainty about when the Air India flight will be cleared for departure.
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