At least 50 flights operated by Indian airlines received bomb threats on Sunday, sources reported. Over the past two weeks, more than 350 flights have faced similar hoax threats, primarily communicated through social media.
Akasa Air announced that 15 of its flights triggered security alerts, but after thorough inspections, all aircraft were cleared for operation. IndiGo reported threats for 18 flights, while Vistara had 17 affected flights.
Akasa Air reported that 15 of its flights received security alerts today, but after comprehensive inspections, all aircraft were cleared for operations. According to informed sources, IndiGo faced threats affecting 18 flights, while Vistara encountered alerts on 17 flights. Additionally, at least two IndiGo flights were diverted due to these threats. Flight 6E 133 from Pune to Jodhpur was redirected to Ahmedabad, and flight 6E 87 from Kozhikode to Dammam was diverted to Mumbai, as confirmed by an official.
“We are aware of security-related alerts received today for the following IndiGo flights: 6E-11 from Delhi to Istanbul, 6E-92 from Jeddah to Mumbai, 6E-112 from Goa to Ahmedabad, 6E-125 from Bengaluru to Jharsuguda, 6E-127 from Amritsar to Ahmedabad, 6E-135 from Kolkata to Pune, 6E-149 from Hyderabad to Bagdogra, 6E-173 from Delhi to Bengaluru, 6E-175 from Bengaluru to Delhi, 6E-197 from Raipur to Hyderabad, 6E-248 from Mumbai to Kolkata, 6E-277 from Ahmedabad to Lucknow, 6E-312 from Bengaluru to Kolkata, 6E-235 from Kolkata to Bengaluru, and 6E-74 from Riyadh to Mumbai. In line with our strict safety protocols, all necessary precautions are being taken, and we are working closely with the relevant authorities. The safety and security of our customers and crew remain our highest priority. We regret any inconvenience caused to our customers and appreciate their understanding during this time,” IndiGo said in a statement.
In response to the surge in hoax bomb threats, the IT Ministry has urged social media platforms to adhere to due diligence requirements, emphasising the need to promptly remove or disable access to misinformation within the timelines set by IT regulations.
Meanwhile, the civil aviation ministry is considering legislative measures to address the issue of hoax threats targeting airlines.