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On October 20, 2024, a wave of bomb threats shook the Indian aviation industry, targeting 32 flights operated by various airlines. This unprecedented event prompted emergency security checks at airports nationwide, causing widespread delays and disruptions. While most of the threats proved to be hoaxes, one Vistara flight, UK 17, traveling from Delhi to London, was diverted to Frankfurt, Germany, for a thorough security inspection. The flight remained grounded for two hours before continuing to London.
The bomb threats were received through various channels, including messages found in lavatories, social media posts, and emails. Airlines affected included Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, Vistara, SpiceJet, Star Air, and Alliance Air. Despite the widespread panic, all the threats were ultimately determined to be false. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) immediately convened a meeting with airline CEOs and representatives in New Delhi to address the situation. The Director General of BCAS, Zulfiquar Hasan, reassured the public that all mandated security protocols were being followed and that Indian airspace remained secure.
Following the incident, the Civil Aviation Ministry announced plans to implement stricter measures to prevent future hoax bomb threats. These measures could include placing individuals responsible for false threats on the no-fly list. Meanwhile, authorities made significant progress in identifying and apprehending one of the perpetrators. Police in Chhattisgarh arrested a 17-year-old boy who admitted to making at least 19 of the threats. Investigations revealed that the boy was motivated by a desire for revenge against his 25-year-old business partner over a financial dispute. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the sources of the remaining threats and are collaborating with social media companies and Virtual Private Network (VPN) providers to identify potential suspects.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of the aviation sector to disruptive tactics, even those based on false pretenses. The swift response from authorities and the cooperation of airlines demonstrate the importance of a collaborative approach to maintaining safety in the air. The incident also underscores the need for robust measures to deter individuals from engaging in such activities and to ensure that the aviation industry remains secure.
Source: Flight bomb threat: 32 Indian planes receive bomb threats in a single day, only one diverted