In light of the recent surge in fake bomb threats affecting Indian airlines, I spoke with various experts and officials to gain insights into the situation. Over the past week, approximately 90 hoax bomb threats have been reported against both domestic and international flights out of Indian airports. This alarming trend has created significant disruptions in the aviation industry, leading to emergency landings, rerouting of flights, and even the escorting of planes by fighter jets.
Can you elaborate on the current state of the investigation into these threats?
Currently, Indian aviation authorities and criminal investigators are still working to identify the source and motive behind these alarming threats, which predominantly come through email or anonymous social media accounts. Major airlines, including Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo, have been primarily targeted. However, international carriers like American Airlines, Jet Blue, and Air New Zealand have also reported threats that disrupted their operations.
What has been the impact of these threats on the aviation industry and passengers?
The repercussions on India’s airline industry have been enormous. Regulations require airlines to respond to each threat, resulting in dozens of flights being rerouted or forced to land in countries like Turkey or Germany. For instance, just this Sunday, a Vistara flight bound for Frankfurt had to turn back when Afghanistan refused it emergency landing rights due to a bomb threat.
Can you share specific examples of how passengers have been affected?
Yes, last week, an Air India Boeing 777 flying from Delhi to Chicago was diverted to Iqaluit in Canada due to a bomb threat. The 200 passengers were stranded there for three days before eventually being transferred to Chicago via a Canadian air force plane. Understandably, many passengers have expressed outrage as their travel plans have faced extensive delays, sometimes lasting days.
What are the government’s and aviation officials’ responses to this situation?
K Ram Mohan Naidu, India’s civil aviation minister, has called the surge in hoax threats a “matter of grave concern.” He assured that those responsible would be identified and prosecuted. Although officials have arrested a minor in connection with the threats and implemented a no-fly list for anyone involved in bomb hoaxes, they are still striving to uncover the broader motives behind these disruptions.
What patterns have investigators observed in the issuance of the bomb threats?
An aviation security official noted a troubling pattern in the threats: once one is issued via social media or a phone call, similar threats often start appearing in rapid succession. While the exact motive remains unclear, they believe it is designed to cause panic and disrupt the aviation sector.
As the situation evolves, the aviation community and authorities are on high alert, aiming to address this unprecedented challenge.
