India‘s airlines and airports faced a significant surge in hoax bomb threats, with 999 incidents reported as of November 14, 2024. This alarming increase, nearly ten times the number recorded in 2023, has led to widespread disruptions in air travel across the country, according to Deputy Civil Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol.
- 999 hoax bomb threats reported in 2023
- Significant increase from previous years
- Over 500 threats in last two weeks
- International agencies involved in responses
- Major disruptions to flight schedules
- India's civil aviation ministry's response efforts
The unprecedented rise in hoax bomb threats this year has created chaos within India’s aviation sector. More than 500 of these threats occurred during the last two weeks of October, leading to significant delays and diversions of flights. The Deputy Minister confirmed that all reported threats were hoaxes, with no actual explosives found at any airports or on aircraft.
Authorities have responded to this crisis by registering 256 complaints and arresting 12 individuals. The spike in threats marks a stark contrast to the period between 2014 and 2017, when only 120 bomb hoax alerts were recorded at airports, primarily affecting Delhi and Mumbai. The recent threats have not only disrupted domestic flights but also attracted international attention, prompting responses from foreign agencies.
In October, two fighter jets from Singapore’s Air Force were dispatched to escort an Air India Express flight due to a bomb threat. Additionally, another Air India flight from New Delhi to Chicago was diverted to a remote Canadian airport, where passengers were later airlifted to their destination. India’s civil aviation ministry stated it is committed to ensuring the safety and security of flight operations.
Each bomb threat triggers a thorough assessment by the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee at airports, involving bomb disposal units, sniffer dogs, and extensive screening of passengers and cargo. The delays caused by these threats can result in substantial financial losses for airlines and security agencies, further complicating the operational landscape of India’s bustling air travel system.
The situation surrounding hoax bomb threats in India highlights the challenges faced by the aviation industry in maintaining security and operational efficiency. As the number of incidents continues to rise, authorities are under pressure to enhance measures to safeguard passengers and restore confidence in air travel.
