Locations Affected: India
In the past few days, multiple Indian flights have received bomb threats, leading to significant disruptions. On 14 October, three international flights operated by two Indian airlines were targeted, impacting over 600 passengers. On 15 October, seven flights were targeted, including an Air India flight from Delhi to Chicago that was diverted to Iqaluit Airport in Canada for security checks. Additionally, two flights received bomb threat calls on 16 October. Most of these threats were found to be hoaxes, issued through different social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter).
Investigation and Security Measures Undertaken
- Air India Express flight IX684, traveling from Madurai to Singapore, received a bomb threat, prompting Singapore to order two F-15 combat jets to escort the flight away from populated areas. Investigations into the threat began after the flight landed at Singapore Changi Airport.
- Following the rise in bomb threats, security agencies have heightened security measures across various airports and conducted counter-terrorist drills.
- The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has partnered with Indian cybersecurity agencies and law enforcement to track the perpetrators of these threats.
- The Mumbai police have issued a notice to a teenage boy, his father, and another person from Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh regarding the investigation into bomb threats targeting three flights on 14 October.
- According to sources from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), several social media accounts posting bomb threats have been identified and suspended. Some of the threats originated in London and other countries.
Potential Disruptions and Causes
Bomb threats, including hoax threats, can result in severe flight disruptions and financial losses for airlines. Authorities are investigating the threats; however, the motive behind them remains unclear. The upcoming festival season and elections in states like Haryana and Maharashtra could be potential reasons for the spike in bomb threats. Additionally, tensions between India and Canada have been high since Canada accused India of involvement in the assassination of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and these tensions recently intensified after both countries expelled diplomats. In 2023, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent separatist leader, threatened Air India flights and called for a boycott. Security agencies are likely to maintain heightened vigilance at major airports across India, especially during the festival season and election period. Delays during security screenings can be anticipated at airports due to heightened security measures. Organizations are advised to stay updated on the situation and prepare necessary contingency plans.
