In response to the recent surge in hoax bomb threats targeting airlines, the government has updated aircraft security regulations, introducing penalties and the possibility of banning offenders from flying. The Civil Aviation Ministry has revised the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023, adding two new provisions—Rules 29A and 30A.
According to official data, airlines received 666 hoax bomb threats in October, and by November 14, the total number of such threats for the year had reached 999.
BCAS can now deny boarding to passengers
The amended rules now grant the Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) the authority to “refuse admission to any person or group of persons on the aircraft” and to direct them to leave the aircraft if necessary. This action can be taken in writing under Rule 29A, if deemed necessary for security reasons.
False information can lead to Rs 1 lakh penalty
Rule 30A focuses on prohibiting the spread of false information that could endanger the safety and security of an aircraft, airport, or civil aviation facility. It also aims to prevent the circulation of false information that could “cause panic among passengers, crew, ground personnel, or the public, or disrupt civil aviation operations.” Violations of this rule may result in penalties of up to Rs 1 lakh.
Nitin Sarin, Managing Partner at Sarin & Co., a law firm specializing in aviation, emphasized that these amendments come in response to the increasing number of hoax bomb threats targeting airlines. He noted that the changes are intended to deter those spreading false information that could undermine aircraft security and cause public panic.
Sarin also pointed out that while the amended rules do not explicitly mention a no-fly list, Rule 29A—which grants BCAS the authority to deny boarding—could potentially serve as a basis for creating such a list.