Air India Flight from Delhi to Chicago Diverted to Canada Following Bomb Threat Incident

An Air India flight en route from Delhi to Chicago, carrying 211 individuals, was diverted to a Canadian airport due to a bomb threat. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed the emergency landing at Iqaluit, Nunavut. All passengers and crew safely disembarked. Air India stated that flight AI127 faced an online security threat, prompting the precautionary landing at Iqaluit Airport.

The aircraft involved was a Boeing 777-300 ER. Passengers and the plane are undergoing re-screening following established security protocols. Air India has mobilised resources at the airport to support passengers until their journey can continue. Officials reported the bomb threat around 12:40 am IST on Wednesday, with local agencies conducting security checks on the aircraft.

Security Measures and Passenger Care

Passengers are accommodated in a temperature-controlled area at the airport, where they have been provided with refreshments and meals. At 12:30 am IST, Air India posted on X that efforts are underway to arrange an alternative flight for passengers to reach their destination promptly. The RCMP confirmed all passengers and crew were moved to Iqaluit International Airport.

Air India acknowledged recent threats against its flights and those of other local airlines. Although these threats have been hoaxes, the airline treats each one seriously as a responsible operator. The inconvenience caused to customers is deeply regretted, according to the airline's statement.

Legal Actions and Recent Incidents

Air India is cooperating with authorities to identify those responsible for these threats, aiming to hold them accountable for the disruption and inconvenience caused. The airline is also considering legal action to recover damages incurred. On Tuesday, besides the Delhi-Chicago flight, six other Indian flights received bomb threats via social media.

On Monday, another Air India flight from Mumbai to New York was diverted back to Delhi after a bomb threat was received. Following standard procedures, a thorough inspection revealed no suspicious items on board.