In brief
In recent days, at least 10 Indian flights have been halted by false bomb threats, prompting delays and diversions. Fighter jets from Singapore's Air Force intervened with an Air India Express plane due to a bomb threat, while another flight was grounded in Canada. The cause of this increase in threats remains unclear, as officials haven't commented. Airlines are working with authorities to track down those responsible.
A string of false bomb threats has caused significant disruptions for Indian airlines, with at least 10 flights affected in the past 48 hours. The threats led to long delays and diversions, impacting both domestic and international routes. Singapore's Air Force sent fighter jets to escort an Air India Express flight following a bomb scare, while another Air India flight diverted to a Canadian airport for safety.The surge in threats, which began on Monday, has left authorities scrambling to determine the cause. Despite repeated incidents in India, it remains unclear why there has been such a sudden increase in hoax threats. Government aviation officials have not responded to media inquiries for comments.The threats have targeted multiple airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, in addition to Air India. On Monday, flights originating from Mumbai experienced delays or diversions when a social media handle posted threats. Police have detained a teenager in connection with these threats. Further threats on Tuesday affected seven flights, with another social media account now suspended for making these threats.Air India has stated its cooperation with authority investigations to identify the sources of the threats and pursue legal action for incurred damages. Indian airports have a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee that evaluates threats, potentially involving bomb disposal squads, police, and emergency services.Such disruptions cause significant financial damage to airlines and security measures. International flights require additional handling by foreign agencies, as seen with the involvement of Singapore and Canada in these cases.After the incident, Singapore's defense minister confirmed that fighter jets escorted the Indian plane which landed safely. Meanwhile, Police in Canada are investigating the threat that forced the diversion of an Air India flight to Iqaluit airport. Air India informed that a Canadian Air Force plane is transporting passengers to Chicago, although the affected flight's departure remains pending.
