Chicago-Bound Air India Flight Diverted to Canada After Bomb Threat: Fourth Incident in Recent Days

An Air India flight en route to Chicago from New Delhi was diverted to Iqaluit Airport in Canada on October 15, 2024, after receiving a bomb threat online. The threat prompted immediate action from the airline, prioritizing passenger safety and compliance with international security protocols.

Flight AI127, operated by a Boeing 777, had taken off from New Delhi at 3:00 am IST and was scheduled to land in Chicago at 7:00 am US time. However, due to the bomb threat posted on social media, the flight was diverted as a precautionary measure to Iqaluit, a remote airport in Canada. Upon landing, all passengers and crew were evacuated safely, and re-screening procedures were initiated following security guidelines.

Air India confirmed the diversion in an official statement:
“Flight AI127, operating from Delhi to Chicago on October 15, 2024, was subject to a security threat posted online. As a precaution, the flight landed at Iqaluit Airport in Canada. The aircraft and passengers are being re-screened as per the laid down security protocols.”

Multiple Recent Threats Target Air India and IndiGo Flights

The bomb threat is not an isolated incident, as in the past few days, both Air India and IndiGo airlines have been targeted by similar threats. The threat to flight AI127 marks the fourth time an international flight has been disrupted by a security alert this week. While these threats have all been deemed hoaxes, the airlines are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of their passengers.

Earlier, an Air India flight from Mumbai to New York was also diverted after a bomb threat. Flight AI119, bound for JFK Airport, was rerouted to New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on October 14, 2024. Upon landing, passengers were evacuated, and security forces conducted thorough inspections, finding no suspicious items on board. This incident was followed by similar threats targeting two IndiGo flights bound for Muscat and Jeddah.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which is overseeing the investigation, confirmed that a total of three planes—two from IndiGo and one from Air India—were affected by bomb threats in recent days. IndiGo’s flights 6E1275 to Muscat and 6E56 to Jeddah were both grounded temporarily for security checks. One of the planes has since departed, while the other is expected to resume its journey shortly.

Authorities Investigate Hoax Threats

Authorities are actively investigating the sources of these hoax bomb threats, which have caused significant disruptions to international travel. The fake threats, posted on unverified social media accounts, are being traced by the BCAS, along with other law enforcement agencies.

Despite all of these threats being hoaxes, they have created delays and anxiety for both passengers and airline staff. Air India expressed its regret for the inconvenience caused but reiterated that all threats are treated seriously. The airline is also considering legal action against those responsible for posting the threats online. In its statement, Air India said:
“Though all threats have subsequently been found to be hoaxes, as a responsible airline, all threats are taken seriously. The inconvenience to customers is sincerely regretted.”

Disruptions Highlight Broader Security Concerns

The recent surge in bomb threats raises concerns about the broader implications for air travel safety. While the threats were false alarms, they have led to increased scrutiny of security measures across various airports and airlines. The incidents highlight vulnerabilities in the aviation industry, particularly regarding online threats that can quickly go viral and cause widespread panic.

With multiple flights being delayed or diverted, passengers are growing increasingly concerned about the safety of air travel. Although authorities have been swift in their responses, these incidents underscore the need for continued vigilance and coordination between airlines, airports, and security agencies.

Air India and IndiGo’s Response

Both Air India and IndiGo have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. The airlines have followed standard operating procedures in response to these threats, moving affected planes to isolated areas and conducting thorough security checks. Both airlines have also activated support systems for stranded passengers, offering assistance and updates throughout the delays.

For the passengers of flight AI127, Air India has activated agencies at Iqaluit Airport to assist until the flight can resume its journey to Chicago. The airline is also working closely with local authorities to ensure the safety and comfort of those on board.

Looking Ahead

While the recent wave of bomb threats has been disruptive, airlines remain confident in their ability to manage such incidents without compromising safety. The aviation industry is no stranger to security challenges, and airlines like Air India and IndiGo have procedures in place to handle such threats effectively.

However, the rise in hoax bomb threats underscores the importance of continued investment in airport and airline security, as well as the need for stricter penalties for those responsible for creating public disturbances. As investigations into the recent incidents continue, authorities are likely to ramp up their efforts to prevent future disruptions.