NEW DELHI: Hoax bomb threat messages have made it a maniac Monday for three international flights of two Indian carriers and close to 600 passengers onboard.
One flight — Air India Mumbai-New York which was diverted to Delhi — and two others delayed for being checked thoroughly before these two were allowed to proceed for their destinations.
The three impacted flights were — AI 119 that was diverted to Delhi; IndiGo Mumbai-Muscat 6E1275 and IndiGo Mumbai-Jeddah 6E56. Aviation security officials confirmed that the threat messages proved to be hoax.
An Air India spokesperson said: “AI119 operating Mumbai to New York JFK on Oct 14 received a specific security alert and on instructions of the government’s security regulatory committee was diverted to Delhi. We confirm that all 239 passengers and 19 crew have disembarked and are currently undergoing security procedures. Refreshments have been provided to the passengers.”
Multiple bomb threats disrupted air and rail travel on Monday, triggering diversions from initial routes and heightened security measures.
Air India flight to New York diverted to Delhi
An Air India flight (AI119) carrying 239 passengers from Mumbai to New York was diverted to Delhi after a bomb threat was reported.
Officials said that the aircraft made an emergency landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport, where all passengers were safely evacuated.
“The aircraft is currently stationed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, and all standard safety protocols are being diligently followed to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew on board,” a senior police officer overseeing the situation said.
The bomb threat, reportedly received through a tweet, is under investigation. Authorities are conducting a thorough search of the aircraft to ensure no danger remains.
In a statement, Air India confirmed the diversion, citing a “specific security alert” issued by the government’s security regulatory committee. “All passengers have disembarked and are at the Delhi airport terminal. Our colleagues on the ground are making sure to minimise the inconvenience caused to our guests by this unexpected disruption,” the airline said.
IndiGo flight to Jeddah receives bomb threat
In a separate incident, an IndiGo flight (6E 56) from Mumbai to Jeddah and IndiGo flight 6E 1275 operating from Mumbai to Muscat also received a bomb threats. The flights were moved to an isolated bay, where security checks were promptly conducted.
An IndiGo spokesperson confirmed that all necessary procedures were being followed to ensure passenger safety.
IndiGo flight 6E1275 for Muscat was scheduled to depart at 2 am, it finally left at 9 am and is expected to land at its destination at 9:45 am, local time.
IndiGo flight 6E57 was to depart at 2:05 am is still on ground.
Bomb scare on Mumbai-Howrah train
Adding to the tense day, the Mumbai-Howrah Mail (train number 12809) received a bomb threat early Monday morning, warning of a timer bomb onboard. The train was halted at Jalgaon station around 4:00 am, where it underwent a thorough security inspection. No suspicious objects were found, and the train continued its journey.
Central Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer confirmed the incident, adding that the authorities handled the situation to avoid any potential danger.(TOI)
