Bomb Threat On Your Flight? Here's What You Should Do As Passenger

Over the past three days, more than 10 flights have been diverted due to bomb threats. From the B777 landing at Iqaluit Airport in Canada, to fighter jets escorting an aircraft near Singapore, it has been a turbulent time for airlines, passengers, airports, security agencies, and the government.

As investigations continue into the origins of these threats and what measures need to be taken to prevent such incidents in the future, one thing remains unequivocally clear: there is zero tolerance for such threats, as reiterated by the head of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), India's primary security authority.

The impact has been widespread, affecting multiple airlines including IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, and Alliance Air, both while on the ground and mid-flight.

Passengers have been subjected to stressful experiences, from being stranded in cold environments without hotel accommodations, to seeing fighter jets flying alongside their aircraft, or being held in isolation after a bomb threat.

The situation is particularly challenging when there are vulnerable passengers on board, such as senior citizens, infants, or those requiring special care, food, or medication.

No matter how much a threat appears to be a hoax at first glance, every threat is taken seriously, and established protocols are followed, reported Hindustan Times.

These recurring threats also raise questions about whether they are part of a larger plan to test the authorities' preparedness, wear down the system, or simply cause economic disruption.

What is a threat?

Any specific information received by individuals or the public that suggests potential danger is considered a threat. This information could be relayed through call centres, airports, or social media, and airline staff are trained to handle such situations. This includes employees at passenger-facing positions as well as those working behind the scenes, such as in call centres. There are specific formats for recording the threat and any additional information, ensuring that security agencies receive as much detail as possible to manage the situation effectively.

Security committees are in place at various levels and take control of the situation, working alongside airline and airport representatives to keep everyone updated and ensure clear communication throughout the process.

What to do?

From a passenger's perspective, these situations can be frightening. Passengers should cooperate with the crew and security agencies, who are there to assist. It is crucial to disembark in an orderly manner, prioritising infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Passengers should also keep track of their own luggage.

If passengers notice any suspicious behaviour from others, discreetly informing the cabin crew could be invaluable. There have been cases where threats were found in aircraft washrooms, with no way of determining who left them. In such cases, information from fellow passengers can aid investigations. Most importantly, it is vital to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation or rumours, as this allows security agencies to perform their duties efficiently and helps release the aircraft sooner, so it can continue to its intended destination.

What are passengers rights in these situations?

Such incidents fall under the category of "force majeure," meaning they are beyond the control of the airline, which is therefore not liable for compensation. In these cases, the security team assumes control of the aircraft, and it is common for checked-in luggage to remain inaccessible until secondary checks have been completed. Blaming the airline or the airport in such circumstances is unhelpful.

Requests for medication, or food for infants and children, are typically prioritised wherever possible, but the provision of hotel rooms or additional meals depends on the threat level, the location of the aircraft, and the security situation.