Hoax Bomb Threats Disrupt Indian Airlines, Triggering Panic and Delays

A surge of hoax bomb threats has caused chaos for Indian airlines, affecting at least 10 flights over the past 48 hours. These threats, directed at multiple airlines including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, have led to significant flight delays, diversions, and heightened security measures.

On Tuesday, Singapore’s Air Force scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express flight away from populated areas following a bomb threat. The flight, traveling from Madurai, India, to Singapore, eventually landed safely at Changi Airport. In another incident earlier that day, an Air India flight from Delhi to Chicago was forced to land in Canada as a precautionary measure.

While hoax bomb threats are not uncommon in India, the sudden spike in incidents since Monday remains unexplained. Authorities, including India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, have not yet commented on the situation. In addition to Tuesday’s incidents, three international flights departing from Mumbai were disrupted on Monday due to threats posted on X (formerly Twitter), leading to the detention of a teenager in connection with the posts.

The threats have resulted in significant disruptions, including evacuations, security sweeps, and the involvement of bomb disposal units and international security agencies. These measures, though essential for passenger safety, have incurred substantial costs for airlines and security agencies. Air India has indicated that it is cooperating with authorities and considering legal action to recover damages caused by the disruptions.

Singapore’s Defence Minister confirmed that the fighter jets escorted the Air India Express flight safely, while passengers from the Chicago-bound flight were transferred to their destination by a Canadian Air Force plane. The timeline for the clearance of the grounded Air India plane in Canada remains unclear.

The hoaxes have not only caused logistical complications but also highlighted the challenges and costs involved in responding to such threats, especially when they require international collaboration. The aviation industry is now on high alert as authorities work to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the threats.