Bomb threat reported on Air India Mumbai-London flight just an hour before landing
PTC News Desk: An Air India flight from Mumbai to London declared an emergency after receiving a bomb threat, adding to a series of similar incidents involving airlines this week. On October 16, 2024, five Air India flights, two Vistara flights, and two IndiGo flights were subjected to bomb threats, marking the fourth consecutive day of such threats targeting airlines.
The Air India flight AI129, a Boeing 777, took off from Mumbai at 7:05 am (IST) and was nearing its destination in London when it declared an emergency one hour before its scheduled landing at Heathrow Airport. The aircraft began 'squawking 7700', an emergency code that alerts nearby air traffic controllers of a crisis onboard. The flight, which was expected to land at 12:05 pm (UK time), safely touched down at Heathrow after the emergency alert.
Flight tracking services like FlightRadar24 showed the aircraft circling over East England while declaring the emergency. After a brief period, the situation was resolved, and the plane was no longer squawking 7700.
The pattern of bomb threats has raised significant concerns across the aviation industry. With over 20 threats reported in just four days, both government and airline authorities have intensified their focus on the issue. Among the affected flights on October 16, a Vistara flight from Frankfurt to Mumbai, carrying 147 passengers, was subjected to a bomb threat received via social media. Upon landing at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the aircraft was taken to an isolation bay, where security agencies conducted thorough checks.
Vistara released a statement affirming its adherence to safety protocols: "Vistara flight UK 028 operating from Frankfurt to Mumbai was subject to a security threat on social media. The aircraft safely landed in Mumbai, and all customers were disembarked for mandatory security checks. We are fully cooperating with authorities."
An IndiGo flight from Istanbul to Mumbai also received a bomb threat. The aircraft, upon landing in Mumbai, was similarly taken to an isolation bay for comprehensive security inspections. IndiGo assured passengers of their safety, stating: "Flight 6E 18 from Istanbul to Mumbai received a security-related alert. Upon landing, the aircraft was isolated, and all passengers were safely disembarked. We are working closely with authorities."
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Amid these incidents, the Indian government has taken decisive steps. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have been asked by the Home Ministry to submit detailed reports on the bomb threats. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu convened an emergency meeting with officials to address the ongoing crisis. The minister emphasized, "We are closely monitoring the situation and are committed to ensuring the highest security standards. Passenger safety is our top priority."
The Parliamentary Standing Committee also discussed the issue, following which new protocols are expected. These include adding individuals responsible for bomb threats to the 'Unruly Passengers' list and potentially banning them from flying for up to five years. Additionally, airlines have suggested that the financial losses they incur due to such hoaxes should be recovered from the culprits.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has also instructed the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to remain on high alert at airports across the country. Further guidelines and a comprehensive report on the bomb scare investigation are expected within two days.
The continuous bomb threats have raised concerns about aviation security, prompting stricter measures and increased vigilance across India’s airports and airlines.
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- With inputs from agencies
