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A series of alarming incidents involving hoax bomb threats has disrupted international air travel, grounding multiple flights and causing significant inconvenience for passengers. The most recent incident involved an Air India flight from New Delhi to Chicago, which was diverted to Iqaluit Airport in Canada as a precautionary measure after a bomb threat was posted online. This was the fourth such incident, with two IndiGo flights and another Air India flight also receiving fake threats earlier in the day.
The Air India flight, AI127, departed from New Delhi at 3:00 am (IST) and was scheduled to land in Chicago at 7:00 am (US Time). However, after the online threat, the aircraft was forced to land in Iqaluit, Canada, at approximately 5:38 pm (IST). Passengers and crew were re-screened according to security protocols, and Air India activated agencies at the airport to assist passengers until their journey could resume.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is investigating the source of the fake threats, which were posted from an unverified X handle. The incident highlights the growing concern of security threats in the aviation industry, especially the use of social media to spread misinformation and disrupt travel operations.
The incident involving the Air India flight followed similar incidents involving two IndiGo flights. Flight 6E1275, bound for Muscat, and Flight 6E56, heading to Jeddah, both received security threats, leading to their diversion to isolated bays at Mumbai Airport. The Muscat-bound flight has already departed, while the Jeddah-bound flight is expected to resume its journey later in the afternoon.
These incidents underscore the need for robust security measures and swift responses to credible threats. The authorities are taking steps to investigate the source of the threats and enhance security protocols to prevent future occurrences. However, the incidents also raise questions about the potential for online misinformation and the ease with which it can disrupt essential services like air travel.
While the inconvenience to passengers is undeniable, the prioritization of safety and security is paramount. The timely response and actions taken by the airlines and aviation authorities in diverting flights and conducting thorough inspections demonstrate the importance of proactive measures to safeguard passengers and aircraft.
The investigation into the source of the threats and the measures taken to prevent future incidents will be crucial in restoring public confidence in air travel and ensuring a secure and reliable transportation system.
Source: Hoax Calls Ground 3 Flights, Air India Jet Lands At Remote Canada Airport