A series of hoax bomb threats has caused significant disruption to Indian airlines over the past 48 hours, affecting at least 10 flights and triggering international security responses. The incidents have led to lengthy delays, diversions, and heightened security measures across multiple carriers and airports.
On Tuesday, Singapore’s Air Force dispatched two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat. The aircraft, traveling from Madurai to Singapore, was safely guided to Changi Airport. Singapore’s Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen confirmed that the plane was handed over to Airport Police upon landing, with investigations ongoing.
In a separate incident, an Air India flight from Delhi to Chicago was forced to make an unscheduled landing at Iqaluit airport in Canada as a precautionary measure. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are currently investigating the threat. Air India later announced that a Canadian Air Force plane would transport the passengers to their final destination in Chicago.
The surge in threats has affected multiple Indian airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. While hoax bomb threats are not uncommon in India, the sudden increase since Monday has raised concerns among aviation authorities and airlines.
On Monday, three international flights departing from Mumbai were either diverted or delayed after threats were posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Police have detained a teenager in connection with these incidents. Tuesday saw seven more flights affected by threats from another X account, which has since been suspended.
Air India has issued a statement confirming its cooperation with authorities to identify those responsible for the threats. The airline is considering legal action to recover damages incurred due to the disruptions.
The threats have activated standard security protocols at Indian airports, involving Bomb Threat Assessment Committees, bomb disposal squads, sniffer dogs, and various emergency services. These procedures typically result in significant delays and substantial costs for airlines and security agencies.
Officials from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security have not yet responded to requests for comment on the situation.
bbc.com
