New Delhi: An Air India flight from Mumbai to New York carrying 239 passengers and crew was diverted to Delhi on Monday morning after Mumbai airport received a message on X regarding a bomb threat on the flight. The message was conveyed to the security agencies in Delhi, after which the flight was diverted to the national capital.
Authorities at Delhi airport and security agencies, including a bomb squad, responded promptly to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Passengers and crew were evacuated safely, and a thorough examination of the aircraft commenced. A senior police official stated that all standard safety measures were followed to manage the situation effectively.
Passengers were provided with refreshments while they awaited further instructions. Air India representatives confirmed that ground staff were on hand to minimize any inconvenience caused by the sudden disruption.
“Flight AI119 operating Mumbai to JFK on October 14 received a specific security alert and on instructions of the government’s security regulatory committee was diverted to Delhi. We confirm that all 239 passengers and 19 crew have disembarked and are currently undergoing security procedures. Refreshments have been provided to the passengers. Our staff on ground are making sure to minimise the inconvenience caused to our guests by this unexpected disruption. Guests will be moved to hotels once security protocols are completed. The flight has been rescheduled to the morning of October 15. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of all passengers. Air India is committed to and accords top priority to the safety and security of its passengers and crew," an Air India Spokesperson said.
In the past, several such bomb threats have turned out to be a hoax. Earlier on October 5, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar International Airport located in Madhya Pradesh's Indore received a bomb threat email following which the police registered an FIR. The mail sender also threatened to blow up other airports in the country.
Similarly, Vadodara Airport received a bomb threat via e-mail, which promoted a thorough search on October 5.
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