Air India Express and Vistara Flights Targeted by Bomb Threats: 16 Incidents in One Week
Discover the recent surge in bomb threats targeting Air India Express and Vistara flights, with 16 incidents reported in just one week. Learn about the latest diversions, hoax threats, and the government's response to enhance aviation security.
Bomb Scare
A Vistara flight from Delhi to London was diverted to Frankfurt on Saturday due to a bomb threat received via social media. After thorough security checks confirmed no danger, the flight resumed its journey to London.
This incident is part of a troubling trend, with 15 flights facing similar threats in just one week, most of which were hoaxes. While many flights underwent security checks before takeoff, some were diverted as a precaution.
The Vistara flight, UK17, landed safely in Frankfurt around 12:40 am (Indian time) and departed for London after about two hours. An airline spokesperson confirmed that all relevant authorities were notified following the threat.
On Friday, an Akasa Air flight from Bengaluru to Mumbai was also impacted by a false security alert, leading to passengers deplaning for safety checks. Authorities have noted common phrases in these hoax threats, including "bombs," "explosive devices," and "you will all die."
Mumbai Police have detained a 17-year-old boy from Chhattisgarh linked to threats against three flights on October 14. Investigators are tracing IP addresses tied to the threats, with some originating from locations abroad, including London. The Civil Aviation Ministry is planning stricter regulations to combat such hoaxes, including a no-fly list for offenders.
