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In a recent surge of security threats, a series of hoax bomb threats have disrupted multiple flights in India, leading to significant delays and diversions. Over the course of 48 hours, a total of six flights were grounded due to these threats, impacting both domestic and international travel. The most notable incident involved an Air India flight from New Delhi to Chicago, which was diverted to Iqaluit Airport in Canada after a threat was posted online.
The Air India flight AI127, a Boeing 777, departed New Delhi at 3:00 am (IST) and was scheduled to land in Chicago at 7:00 am (US Time). However, following the online threat, the aircraft was diverted to Iqaluit, a remote airport in Canada, as a precautionary measure. The airline activated security protocols, including re-screening passengers and the aircraft, and deployed agencies at the airport to assist passengers until their journey could resume. The flight remained grounded in Canada as of 5:38 pm (IST).
Other flights affected by hoax bomb threats included a Dammam-Lucknow IndiGo flight and an Ayodhya-Bengaluru Air India Express flight. In addition, two IndiGo flights and another Air India flight were also targeted with fake threats the previous day. IndiGo responded by stating that the safety and security of its passengers and crew is its top priority and that it was working closely with authorities to take all necessary precautions.
The fake bomb threats were traced to an unverified X handle, and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is actively investigating the matter. Sources within the airlines have confirmed that these threats are impacting their finances, but they remain committed to taking them seriously and adhering to established safety protocols. They acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and the need to prioritize passenger safety.
Prior to the recent incidents, three international flights, including two operated by IndiGo and one by Air India, had received fake security threats on October 14th. These threats prompted security checks on all three planes, leading to disruptions in outbound international flight operations. One of the IndiGo flights has since departed, while the other is expected to resume its journey later in the day. The incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of air travel to such threats and the importance of robust security measures to protect passengers and crew.
The BCAS has confirmed that a total of three planes were subject to bomb threats. One IndiGo plane was cleared to fly, while the other two were awaiting clearance. The first incident involved Air India flight AI119, which was scheduled to fly from Mumbai to New York's JFK Airport. Following a security alert, the flight was diverted to New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Passengers and crew were safely evacuated, and the aircraft was taken to an isolated runway for thorough inspection by bomb squad and security agencies.
Simultaneously, two IndiGo flights originating from Mumbai were also affected. Flight 6E1275, bound for Muscat, and Flight 6E56, heading to Jeddah, received security threats. Both aircraft were moved to isolated bays at Mumbai Airport, following standard operating procedures. The Muscat-bound plane has since departed, while the Jeddah-bound flight also followed the same protocol. The airline emphasized that safety remains its top priority and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the security of passengers and crew.
Source: Hoax Calls Ground 3 Flights, Air India Jet Lands At Remote Canada Airport