North News
New Delhi, October 22
A series of hoax bomb threats targeting major Indian airlines persisted on Tuesday, impacting more than 70 domestic and international flights within a 24-hour period. In the past week alone, over 120 flights have reportedly received similar threats.
The latest reports indicate that at least 23 flights from IndiGo, 21 from Vistara, 12 from Akasa Air, and 23 from Air India have been affected. Notable IndiGo flights impacted include 6E-63 from Delhi to Jeddah and 6E-12 from Istanbul to Delhi, among others serving major cities, according to the news outlet News18. An airline spokesperson confirmed that passengers on the affected flights were safely disembarked.
“We prioritize the safety of our customers and crew in all operations. We are collaborating closely with relevant authorities and adhering to standard operating procedures. We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused and appreciate our customers’ understanding,” IndiGo stated.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu announced on Monday that the government is considering legislative measures in response to the surge in hoax bomb threats. At a press conference, the minister highlighted two key areas for action, including potential amendments to the Aircraft Security Rules.
The majority of these threats have been issued primarily via the social media platform X, causing distress among passengers and prompting swift action from aviation authorities. On last Saturday alone, at least 30 threats were reported, followed by another dozen on Sunday. All were subsequently confirmed to be hoaxes.
“One of the ideas we want to push forward is to amend the Aircraft Security Rules. Once the perpetrator behind such threats is apprehended, we intend to place them on the no-fly list,” Kinjarapu stated. He added that another proposed measure aims to strengthen the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Civil Aviation Act, seeking to impose harsher penalties on individuals responsible for these threats.
