Around 20 IndiGo flights received similar threats, prompting the airline to disembark passengers and follow security procedures
In a series of alarming incidents, as many as 70 bomb threats were reported on Thursday, impacting major Indian airlines including Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, and IndiGo, according to sources. These threats follow a disturbing trend of similar warnings over the past 10 days, with nearly 250 flights targeted. Although most have been hoaxes, they’ve caused significant disruptions and raised serious security concerns across the country’s aviation sector.
Akasa Air, which faced security alerts on several flights, stated, “The Akasa Air Emergency Response teams are monitoring the situation and are in touch with the security and regulatory authorities. We are following all safety and security procedures in coordination with local authorities.” Air India also confirmed that some of its flights received threats on October 24. “Following laid down protocols, relevant authorities were immediately alerted, and all security procedures strictly adhered to, as per guidance from the regulatory authorities. The safety and security of our passengers, crew, and aircraft remain our top priority,” an Air India spokesperson said.
Around 20 IndiGo flights received similar threats, prompting the airline to disembark passengers and follow security procedures. “All customers were safely disembarked. We worked closely with the relevant authorities, and standard operating procedures were followed,” IndiGo reported in a statement.
The frequent bomb threats have kept thousands of passengers and security agencies on high alert. Some international flights have even been diverted, adding to operational stress. The financial toll on airlines has been significant, with estimated costs of ₹1.5 crore for each disrupted domestic flight and around ₹5-5.5 crore for international routes, according to an airline finance official.
Government Response & Warnings To Social Media Giants
The surge in hoax bomb threats has spurred government action. On Wednesday, the Centre held a virtual meeting with representatives from airlines and social media platforms to address the issue, with Joint Secretary Sanket S. Bhondve leading the discussion. The Union Ministry of Electronics and IT expressed dissatisfaction with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta, urging them to deploy AI-based solutions to prevent threats from being disseminated.
Legislative Measures Under Consideration
With the threats showing no signs of stopping, Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu has stated that the government is preparing legislative measures to counter the trend. Proposed amendments to the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, 1982, would introduce stricter penalties, including no-fly list restrictions for individuals found guilty of issuing false threats.
The recurring incidents highlight both the pressing need for strengthened aviation security and the role of digital platforms in mitigating misinformation. By enhancing security protocols and potentially introducing legislative measures, authorities aim to protect passengers and restore confidence in the nation’s aviation network.