More than 100 flights operated by various Indian airlines received bomb threats on Tuesday, according to sources. In just 16 days, over 510 domestic and international flights have been targeted, although these threats ultimately proved to be hoaxes, primarily communicated through social media.
Air India reported threats for approximately 36 flights, while IndiGo and Vistara faced threats for around 35 and 32 flights, respectively. An Air India spokesperson confirmed that several flights were subjected to security threats via social media on October 29, 2024.
“A number of Air India flights were subject to security threats received on social media on 29 October 2024…Following the laid down protocols, relevant authorities were immediately alerted, and all security procedures strictly adhered to, as per guidance from the regulatory authorities,” an airline spokesperson said in a statement.
Bomb threats to Indian flights continue: At least 50 flights targeted today, cumulative total crosses 350 mark
Bomb threats to over 70 flights! 20 Air India flights targeted – Details inside
Bomb Threat: Afghanistan denies airspace to Frankfurt-bound Vistara flight- Here’s what happened next
Wave of hoax bomb threats to Indian airlines continue! Over 20 IndiGo, Air India, Vistara and Akasa Air flights receive threats today
Case registered in Mumbai
In response to the threats, the Mumbai police have initiated a case against an unidentified individual after three airlines received bomb threats on their X accounts. The threats to IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara on Monday were verified as hoaxes.
This month, the city police have filed 14 FIRs related to bomb threats targeting airlines. In light of the increase in hoax threats, the IT Ministry has urged social media platforms to fulfill their obligations by promptly removing or disabling access to misinformation in line with IT regulations.
Additionally, the civil aviation ministry is considering legislative measures to address the issue of hoax bomb threats. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu mentioned on Sunday that the Centre is contemplating a ban on individuals who issue such threats from flying.