In response to the rise in anonymous bomb threats targeting Indian airlines, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued updated guidelines for civil aviation security agencies and intelligence teams. These new protocols come in light of the evolving security challenges, particularly the trend of hoax bomb threats circulated through social media.
Spike in Hoax Threats Disrupting Operations
Over the last two weeks, more than 510 domestic and international flights have been affected by bomb threats—primarily made through anonymous handles on social media platform X—that have resulted in operational disruptions and financial losses for airlines. According to a senior aviation security official, the revised guidelines, in place since October 19, have helped classify over 400 of these recent threats as hoaxes, easing pressure on resources for airports, airlines, and security agencies.
The new guidelines update the Bomb Threat Contingency Plan (BTCP) established in 2014, introducing a multi-layered verification process for threat assessment. The Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC), which consists of representatives from BCAS, CISF, local police, airport operators, and airline officials, will now consider additional factors before declaring a threat as “specific” (serious) or “non-specific” (hoax).
Key questions for BTAC will include whether the threat was issued from a verified social media handle, whether the handle is pseudonymous, if there have been multiple threats from the same account, and whether the targeted flight includes VIP or VVIP passengers. This layered verification helps BTAC determine the credibility of threats, potentially allowing a more efficient response when legitimate threats arise.
In cases where bomb threats are received, BTAC has the option to convene remotely using a secure online platform as an interim measure until all members can physically assemble at a designated control room. The cyber units of various intelligence and investigation agencies are also working closely with BTAC to trace and evaluate social media handles issuing threats.