Multiple bomb threats target over 25 flights across India, Government steps up investigations

On Friday, more than 25 flights operated by Indian airlines received bomb threats, marking a significant escalation in aviation security concerns. The threats predominantly targeted seven flights each from major carriers such as IndiGo, Vistara, and SpiceJet, alongside six Air India flights. Specific routes affected include IndiGo's Flight 6E 87 from Kozhikode to Dammam and 6E 11 from Delhi to Istanbul, highlighting the threats' potential to disrupt both domestic and international travel.

IndiGo confirmed that Flight 6E 2099, operating from Udaipur to Delhi, received a bomb threat prior to take-off. In accordance with standard operating procedures and security agency guidelines, the aircraft was redirected to an isolation bay, where all passengers were safely disembarked. The airline spokesperson emphasized that safety protocols were strictly followed, ensuring no harm came to those on board. This incident reflects the ongoing challenges airlines face in maintaining security amid a rise in hoax threats.

In the last 12 days alone, over 275 flights operated by Indian carriers have received bomb threats, with most originating from social media platforms. The rise in such threats has forced airlines to implement additional security measures, resulting in diversions, delays, and thorough searches of aircraft. The prevalence of these hoaxes has raised alarms among airline operators and passengers alike, complicating travel logistics and instilling fear within the aviation community.

In response to the growing crisis, the Indian government has taken proactive measures to address the issue. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has directed social media companies, including Meta and X, to provide data regarding the accounts responsible for posting hoax bomb threats. This initiative aims to assist law enforcement agencies in identifying and apprehending individuals behind these disruptive messages, ensuring accountability in online communications.

The implications of bomb threats have extended beyond national borders, leading to international incidents that necessitate military intervention. Notably, an Air India flight from Mumbai to London was intercepted by Royal Air Force fighter jets due to a bomb threat. Additionally, the Singapore Armed Forces dispatched fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane from Madurai to safety, illustrating the severity and potential consequences of such threats on global aviation security.

To mitigate future incidents, the Civil Aviation Ministry, under the leadership of Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, is exploring legislative measures that may include placing individuals responsible for bomb threats on a no-fly list. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance flight safety and deter future hoaxes.