An Air India flight, AI 2957, traveling from Delhi to Mumbai, sent an emergency alert to air traffic control shortly after departing from Indira Gandhi Airport on January 27, indicating a potential hijacking.
While the pilot later confirmed it was a false alarm, the Delhi ATC activated security protocols, notifying the destination airport, security agencies and the Indian Air Force.
Officials familiar with the situation stated that there was no crew involvement in the incident, and it was likely caused by a “technical glitch.” The official also informed that that airline is not likely to issue any statement at the moment as the investigation is currently underway.
Here’s what happened
According to multiple media reports, the flight, carrying 126 passengers, triggered the false alarm when the aircraft’s transponder sent a ‘squawk 7500’ code to Delhi ATC shortly after takeoff.
Squawk codes are four-digit numbers assigned by air traffic control (ATC) to identify aircraft in flight, ranging from 0000 to 7777. According to Flightradar.com, the squawk code 7500 signals “unlawful interference,” which is commonly associated with a hijacking.