At Least 50 Indian Flights Receive Bomb Threats

In a shocking series of events, at least 50 flights operated by Indian airlines were targeted with bomb threats on Sunday. This alarming trend has heightened security measures across various airports in the country, leading to significant disruptions. The surge in these threats has raised serious concerns about aviation safety and prompted swift responses from airline operators and government authorities.

Surge in Hoax Bomb Threats

Over the past 14 days, more than 350 flights operated by Indian carriers have received hoax bomb threats, with the majority of these threats originating from social media platforms. The frequency and nature of these threats have put tremendous pressure on security forces and aviation authorities to ensure passenger safety while minimizing disruptions to flight operations.

Impact on Airlines

Akasa Air: On Sunday, Akasa Air reported that 15 of its flights were subjected to security alerts. After thorough inspections, all aircraft were released for operations. Despite the disruptions, the airline managed to maintain its operational schedule, demonstrating a robust response to the security challenges.

IndiGo and Vistara: IndiGo faced bomb threats for 18 of its flights, leading to the diversion of two flights. IndiGo’s flight 6E 133, operating from Pune to Jodhpur, was diverted to Ahmedabad, and flight 6E 87 from Kozhikode to Dammam was diverted to Mumbai. Meanwhile, Vistara received similar threats for 17 of its flights, adding to the widespread concern among passengers and authorities.

IndiGo’s Response: IndiGo released a statement detailing the specific flights that received security alerts, including notable international routes such as 6E 11 (Delhi-Istanbul) and 6E 92 (Jeddah-Mumbai). The airline ensured that all affected flights underwent rigorous security checks before being cleared for operations.

Notable Incidents

One significant incident involved a flight operated by Akasa Airlines arriving from Bengaluru. The aircraft, carrying 173 passengers, landed safely amid urgent safety protocols. Authorities conducted a comprehensive inspection of the plane and its occupants upon touchdown. Maharishi Valmiki Airport Director Vinod Kumar confirmed that all necessary checks were completed, and no suspicious items were found, ensuring the safety of the passengers.

Statement from Airport Director Vinod Kumar: "There was a bomb threat call concerning the Akasa flight from Bengaluru to Ayodhya. The checks have been conducted successfully, and it appears the call was a hoax. There were 173 passengers on board."

Government Response and Legislative Actions

In light of the surge in hoax bomb threats, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu announced that the Centre is considering steps to ban individuals who issue hoax bomb threats from flying. The minister emphasized the need for stringent measures to deter such activities and ensure the safety and security of passengers and airline operations.

International Collaboration: The minister also highlighted that the government is seeking support from international agencies, law enforcement wings, and the Intelligence Bureau to prevent these fake threats. The aim is to create a comprehensive framework that addresses the issue at both national and international levels.

Amending Civil Aviation Laws: The Civil Aviation Ministry is mulling amendments to two Civil Aviation Laws to strengthen the legal framework against hoax threats. These legislative measures are expected to provide a robust deterrent against individuals who engage in such disruptive behaviors.

IT Ministry's Directive to Social Media Platforms

The Information Technology (IT) Ministry has issued directives to social media platforms, urging them to observe due diligence obligations and promptly remove or disable access to misinformation within the strict timelines prescribed under IT rules. This move is aimed at curbing the spread of hoax threats that have primarily originated from social media, contributing to the current wave of disruptions.

Ensuring Passenger Safety

As authorities continue to address these threats, the safety of passengers and crew remains the top priority for Indian aviation. Airlines and security agencies are working tirelessly to implement enhanced safety protocols and ensure that all flights operate smoothly despite the ongoing challenges.

 

The recent spate of hoax bomb threats targeting Indian airlines has prompted a multifaceted response from airlines, security agencies, and government authorities. With over 50 flights receiving threats on a single day and more than 350 flights affected in the past two weeks, the aviation sector is on high alert. The proactive measures taken by airlines, coupled with legislative and technological interventions, aim to safeguard passengers and restore confidence in air travel.