Despite the central government’s strict measures, cases of bombing threats to planes continue unabated. Currently, bomb threats have been made against 85 planes. This comprises of 20 Air India aircraft. Twenty Indigo, twenty Vistara, and twenty-five Akasa flights are among those planes that have been targeted with threats.
Earlier in the day on Monday, planes also received bomb threats. A spokesperson from IndiGo reported that on Monday, four flights of the airline – 6E 164 (Mangaluru to Mumbai), 6E 75 (Ahmedabad to Jeddah), 6E 67 (Hyderabad to Jeddah) and 6E 118 (Lucknow to Pune) were issued security alerts.
The aviation company reported in four different statements that the passengers from these flights were safely removed. An Air India representative verified that certain flights of the airline on Monday were targeted with security threats through social media. “In accordance with the established protocols, the relevant authorities were promptly notified and all security measures were adhered to as advised by regulatory bodies and security agencies,” stated the spokesperson.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu recently addressed the bomb threats directed at Indian airlines. In an interview with India Today, Naidu mentioned that the government is adhering to essential protocols and has the situation under control.
In the last nine days, more than 170 flights have been affected by these threats, which are mainly coming from social media platforms.
When asked if these threats are part of a larger conspiracy, Naidu urged caution and said that I will not take any hasty decision on this. We should wait till the full investigation is done. Only when we find out who is behind this, we will be able to tell whether there is a conspiracy or there is some intention regarding the festive season or an attempt to affect the airlines.
The Civil Aviation Minister highlighted the role of social media and cyber channels in these threats, noting that despite many IP addresses tracing back to foreign locations, they can be redirected through VPNs, making investigations more complex.
Naidu made it clear that it is not my responsibility to reveal its origin. All intelligence and relevant agencies are monitoring the situation closely. Nevertheless, he made a commitment to the public that “we are putting in all the necessary work to ensure the safety of our skies.”
Financial consequences for airline services With regards to disruptions, airlines are expected to incur losses of Rs 600 million resulting in losses amounting to crores of rupees. He stated that acknowledging that these were false No-fly orders, those responsible for the threats will be added to the list.
He stated that once we figure out who is responsible for this (fake threat), we intend to add him to the no-fly list. The minister also announced intentions to modify the Swastika Act, which governs illicit actions regarding civil aviation, in order to enforce harsher punishments on individuals accountable for such actions.
Naidu emphasized the quick reaction of the government, including heightened security measures, more surveillance, and extra checks at airports. He mentioned that they are enhancing security measures at airports and are not being complacent about it. They are collaborating with the Home Ministry, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement to synchronize their actions.
Naidu emphasized the importance of all stakeholders, including social media platforms, aligning with national security priorities. He mentioned that we are communicating with these accounts and I believe the Income Tax Department is also actively addressing these cases to receive their assistance in expediting and enhancing the investigation process.
He asserted that now is not the moment to instigate fear or panic. I want to assure the citizens that there is no need to be afraid. The situation is contained… Despite appearing inaccurate almost all the time, we still adhere to the protocol. He confirmed that the government is aiming to find a permanent solution to avoid similar incidents in the future.