The issue of bomb threats targeting domestic airlines in India has continued for a fourth consecutive day, with several flights from Air India Express, Vistara, and Indigo receiving such threats on Thursday. Air India confirmed that some of its flights received threats, although no specific numbers were given. One of the most notable incidents involved an Air India flight from Mumbai to London, which required a Royal Air Force fighter jet to escort the plane safely to London’s Heathrow Airport.
Authorities have been working to address these hoaxes, which have caused significant disruptions. Approximately 10 social media accounts that posted threats have been suspended or blocked. These threats, which have been hoaxes, have impacted 31 flights since Monday. A joint team of cyber security, aviation, and intelligence agencies is investigating the issue. The civil aviation ministry is planning to amend regulations to ensure stricter action, potentially including placing perpetrators on no-fly lists.
Minister of Civil Aviation, K. Rammohan Naidu, stated that the ministry is treating the situation seriously and is working on measures to prevent further occurrences, including examining international practices. Legislative amendments may also be explored to create stronger deterrents against hoax threats.
