A series of bomb threats targeting major Indian airlines has thrown the country’s aviation sector into chaos, causing significant disruptions and raising concerns about security. Over the weekend, 85 flights operated by Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, and Akasa Air were targeted, leading to their grounding and thorough inspections. This latest incident follows a pattern of similar hoax threats, with nearly 100 flights impacted in just one week.
On Sunday, six flights each from Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, and Akasa Air received bomb threats. Among the affected routes were IndiGo’s services from Jeddah to Mumbai and Delhi to Istanbul, Vistara’s international routes like Delhi to Frankfurt, and Akasa Air’s domestic routes from Delhi to Goa. While Air India flights also received threats, the airline has not yet publicly commented on the specifics.
Despite the heightened anxiety, no explosive devices were found after extensive security checks, and all flights were eventually cleared for operation. Authorities acted swiftly, moving the affected aircraft to isolated bays for detailed inspections. Passengers were safely disembarked, and the airlines adhered to all security protocols under the guidance of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).
The BCAS is currently working on implementing stricter measures to deter future threats. This includes exploring the possibility of placing individuals responsible for hoax threats on a no-fly list. The recent wave of bomb threats highlights the vulnerability of India’s aviation sector and underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures. As authorities investigate these incidents, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of passengers and preventing further disruptions to air travel.