Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Surge in Hoax Bomb Threats Disrupt Indian Airlines
In the past 48 hours, over 10 Indian flights have been targeted with hoax bomb threats, causing significant delays and diversions. The wave of threats has raised alarm, impacting several airlines including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air.
Fighter Jets Scramble After Bomb Threat on Air India Flight
One of the most serious incidents occurred on Tuesday when Singapore’s Air Force dispatched two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express flight. The aircraft, en route from Madurai to Singapore, was diverted away from populated areas as a precautionary measure after a bomb threat was reported. The plane landed safely at Changi Airport, where it was met by Singaporean authorities for further investigation.
Emergency Landing in Canada After Threat to Air India Flight
Earlier that same day, an Air India flight traveling from Delhi to Chicago had to make an emergency landing at Iqaluit Airport in Canada following another bomb threat. Canadian authorities, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, are investigating the case. Meanwhile, a Canadian Air Force plane was dispatched to transport passengers to Chicago, while the Air India aircraft remains grounded pending further investigation.
Pattern of Threats Unfolds Across Multiple Airlines
The recent surge in threats is not limited to Air India. On Monday, three international flights departing from Mumbai were delayed or diverted following threats posted on social media by an X (formerly Twitter) handle. Police detained a teenager in connection with the threats. Another wave of threats hit seven more flights on Tuesday, leading to increased security measures and further disruptions.
Authorities Respond to Security Challenges
Indian aviation authorities are grappling with the sudden rise in hoax threats. Every airport in India has a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee responsible for determining the severity of threats and taking necessary action. Once a threat is received, passengers, along with their baggage and cargo, must undergo thorough re-screening. Security and engineering teams are also required to inspect the aircraft before clearance is granted for takeoff.
The hoax threats have caused significant operational disruptions, leading to costly delays for airlines and mobilization of bomb disposal squads, police, and medical personnel. Airlines like Air India are now considering legal action to recover the financial losses incurred.
International Cooperation in Bomb Threat Response
In cases involving international flights, authorities from other countries have also become involved. The bomb threat targeting the Air India flight to Singapore, for instance, prompted swift action from Singapore’s defense forces. In Canada, local authorities are continuing their investigation into the threat against the Delhi to Chicago flight.
Despite the serious response to these incidents, authorities are still investigating the reason behind the sudden spike in hoax bomb threats and working to prevent further disruptions.
