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The upcoming Diwali travel season in India has been marred by a series of security threats targeting numerous flights operated by major domestic airlines. These threats, which have escalated in recent days, have resulted in significant disruptions, affecting thousands of passengers eager to celebrate the festival with loved ones.
On Thursday, over 80 flights belonging to Indian carriers, including Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, Akasa, and SpiceJet, were targeted with threats. The sheer volume of these threats, which originated from the same handle, has caused widespread concern and prompted authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly. These threats have led to the grounding of numerous flights, with aircraft undergoing rigorous security checks before being cleared for further operations. This has resulted in significant delays and inconvenience for passengers.
The impact of these threats has been exacerbated by the simultaneous occurrence of severe cyclonic storm 'Dana' impacting flights on the East Coast. This confluence of events has left passengers stranded and scrambling for information, with airlines struggling to manage the influx of calls and rebooking requests. The technical glitches experienced by Air India and Vistara's contact centers further compounded the issue, making it difficult for passengers to reach airline representatives.
The airlines, while emphasizing their commitment to passenger safety and security, have expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by these disruptions. The focus remains on addressing the root of these threats, with government agencies actively collaborating with social media platforms to trace the perpetrators and hold them accountable. However, the ongoing investigation raises concerns about the effectiveness of security measures in place and the potential impact on future travel plans during the festive season.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threats to aviation security. It highlights the need for enhanced security measures, including robust threat detection and response mechanisms, to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. The situation also calls for greater awareness and vigilance among travelers, urging them to report any suspicious activity to authorities promptly. As the Diwali travel season reaches its peak, it is imperative that airlines and relevant authorities collaborate effectively to mitigate the risks posed by such threats and restore passenger confidence.
Source: Airlines get threats for over 80 flights ahead of peak Diwali weekend travel