Impact of Hoax Bomb Threats, Measures in Place for Bomb Threats, International Cooperation in Handling Threats
Since Monday, multiple bomb threats have targeted Indian airlines, causing chaos for travelers and leading security agencies to take action. Authorities have dealt with at least 10 hoax bomb threats, prompting delays and flight diversions.
On Tuesday, Singapore’s Air Force deployed two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane flying to Singapore. The jets redirected the plane away from populated areas to ensure public safety until the flight landed safely at Changi Airport. Meanwhile, Canadian authorities diverted an Air India flight from Delhi to Chicago to Iqaluit Airport on Monday. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are investigating this threat.
Bomb Threats Affect Multiple Airlines
Bomb threats also targeted flights from IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. Authorities stated that three international flights from Mumbai were disrupted on Monday after an X (formerly Twitter) user posted bomb threats targeting these flights. Police have detained a teenager for questioning in relation to this. Similarly, threats posted by another X handle on Tuesday led to the diversion of several flights. The account responsible for these threats has since been suspended.
Air India confirmed its cooperation with law enforcement and announced that they will pursue legal action to recover damages caused by these incidents. These threats caused large-scale delays involving bomb disposal units, police, security teams, and doctors, as well as complete re-screening of passengers and cargo.
Impact of Hoax Bomb Threats on Airline Operations
Every airport in India has a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee that evaluates the severity of bomb threats. Any perceived threat triggers strict protocols involving bomb disposal squads, emergency services, and thorough screening of passengers and cargo. These protocols cause significant disruptions, often costing airlines and security agencies thousands of dollars.
Economic Impact and International Coordination
Flights impacted by bomb threats, particularly those traveling to other countries, require coordination with international authorities, as seen in Canada and Singapore. The delays cause inconvenience to passengers and affect airlines’ schedules, profitability, and reputation.
International Cooperation in Handling Threats
The involvement of Singapore’s Air Force highlights the level of coordination between countries when bomb threats arise. Singapore’s defense minister, Ng Eng Hen, confirmed that two fighter jets escorted the Air India Express flight safely to Changi Airport. Similarly, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police took over investigations when the Delhi-Chicago flight had to land at Iqaluit Airport.
Air India and Government Response
Air India expressed gratitude to the involved authorities and stated that a Canadian Air Force plane helped transport passengers to Chicago. It remains uncertain when the original aircraft will resume its journey. The airline is determined to hold the perpetrators accountable for the damages suffered due to these hoax bomb threats.
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