Domestic Airlines Targeted by Hoax Bomb Threats; Government Considers Stricter Regulations

Domestic airlines in India have been plagued by bomb threats for four consecutive days. On Thursday, several flights were targeted, prompting authorities to suspend or block around 10 social media accounts responsible for these threats. Among the affected flights were four from Air India Express, two from Vistara, and one from Indigo. Air India reported multiple hoax bomb threats but did not specify the exact number.

Air India confirmed that all necessary procedures were followed, ensuring safe landings for all flights. "Air India is committed to and accords top priority to the safety and security of its passengers and crew," an official stated. The Civil Aviation Ministry is considering regulatory amendments to address such incidents more stringently.

Social Media Threats and Security Measures

Authorities have identified about 10 social media accounts that issued hoax threats this week. These accounts have been suspended or blocked by cybersecurity agencies. A joint team analysed these handles, leading to their suspension as they continued issuing threats. Most of these accounts were on X, with threats targeting both domestic and international flights.

Cybersecurity agencies are enhancing online monitoring to trace the origins of these threats. They are investigating email registrations and geographical locations of the handles, some possibly originating from abroad. This information is being shared with local police departments for further action.

Impact on Airlines and Passengers

The fake threats have caused significant inconvenience to passengers and airline staff, affecting logistics and operational costs. Since Monday, 31 flights have received bomb threats, leading to some being diverted. Most threats have been deemed hoaxes, but they continue to disrupt airline operations.

A civil aviation ministry official mentioned plans to implement strict measures against hoax bomb threats. This includes potentially placing perpetrators on a no-fly list. Minister K Rammohan Naidu emphasised the seriousness of the situation and the need for decisive action.

Legal Actions and Future Regulations

A 17-year-old boy from Chhattisgarh has been detained by Mumbai Police in connection with threats posted on X targeting three flights from Mumbai on October 14. The ministry is reviewing international practices for handling such threats and may consider legislative changes for stronger deterrents.

Currently, there are no specific aviation regulations addressing bomb threats originating from external sources like social media. Actions against such incidents are taken under criminal laws by the police. The Ministry of Home Affairs is actively involved in investigating these cases.

During a briefing, Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal remarked on the seriousness of bomb threats, stating that several arrests have been made and FIRs filed. He expressed hope for strong actions against those responsible for these disruptions.