Security agencies on high alert as multiple bomb threats lead to disruptions for airlines and passengers across India
In a distressing wave of bomb threats, ten flights operated by Indian carriers have received alarming messages over the past 48 hours, prompting immediate security responses and operational disruptions. Notably, an Air India flight carrying 211 passengers from Delhi to Chicago was diverted to Canada after threats were communicated through social media.
The threats, which appeared on the microblogging platform X, included seven messages received on Tuesday, a day following three bomb threats directed at international flights originating from Mumbai. While the authorities swiftly determined that the messages from Monday were hoaxes, the impact was felt acutely by hundreds of passengers and crew members.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe affected flights included:
- Air India Express IX765 from Jaipur to Bengaluru via Ayodhya
- SpiceJet SG116 from Darbhanga to Mumbai
- Akasa Air QP1373 from Bagdogra to Bengaluru
- Air India AI127 from Delhi to Chicago
- IndiGo 6E98 from Dammam (Saudi Arabia) to Lucknow
- Alliance Air 9I650 from Amritsar to Dehradun
- Air India Express IX684 from Madurai to Singapore
In a show of heightened vigilance, the Singapore Armed Forces scrambled two fighter jets to escort the Air India Express plane, ensuring it landed safely at Changi Airport away from densely populated areas.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has responded by contacting cyber-security agencies to address the threats, leading to the suspension of the responsible X handle, as reported by news agency PTI. The swift actions taken by security forces highlight the seriousness with which authorities are treating these incidents, despite the initial assessments of them being hoaxes.
As air travel continues to face challenges, passengers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities while airlines and security agencies work to ensure safety during flights. The ongoing situation serves as a reminder of the critical importance of aviation security in the face of evolving threats.