India says ‘enough’ after bomb hoaxes affect almost 100 flights

India vows punishment for hoax bomb threats disrupting flights.

India has taken a firm stance on the recent rise of hoax bomb threats that have caused significant disruptions to air travel. These false alarms, which have impacted both domestic and international flights, have resulted in delays, financial losses, and heightened security measures, as authorities scramble to address the situation.

In the past week, more than 90 flights departing from Indian airports have been targeted by bomb threats. Around 50 of these occurred over the weekend, sending airlines and passengers into disarray. While most of these threats were directed at Indian airlines, international carriers were also affected, with several flights to destinations such as the United States also being impacted.

One flight bound for New York was forced to make an emergency landing after a bomb threat, and another flight to London was intercepted by the British air force. These events, though hoaxes, have caused extensive delays and discomfort for passengers, with one flight even being stranded in a remote Canadian city for 18 hours.

The scale of these hoaxes has pushed Indian authorities to take action. Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu reassured the public that safety remains the top priority and mentioned that authorities are considering placing those responsible for these threats on a no-fly list. Such measures, they believe, would act as a deterrent and prevent further disruptions.

Although an arrest has been made, officials have dismissed the possibility of a wider conspiracy behind the threats. However, the identity and motives of the perpetrator remain unclear. Minister Naidu also stated that anyone found guilty of making such threats would face jail time and fines. New amendments to existing laws would ensure that making bomb threats becomes a punishable offence with serious consequences.

India has a long history of security incidents involving airlines, which makes these threats even more alarming. From the hijackings of the 1970s to the tragic bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985, the country has dealt with the devastating effects of such acts. Consequently, all bomb threats, even if suspected to be hoaxes, are treated with the utmost seriousness.

Experts point out that the financial repercussions for airlines are substantial. The process of diverting flights, evacuating passengers, checking for explosives, and refuelling planes can lead to long delays and cascading disruptions throughout the airline’s schedule. Additionally, airlines must bear the costs of compensating passengers, which adds to the overall impact.