NEW DELHI: Hoax threats to Indian carrier flights continue unabated, even two weeks after the initial surge. On Sunday, over 50 flights from airlines such as IndiGo , Vistara , and Akasa received threats. IndiGo alone reported receiving “security-related alerts” for 18 flights. Two of these — Pune-Jodhpur (6E 133) and Kozhikode-Dammam (6E 87) — were diverted to Ahmedabad and Mumbai, respectively. In the past 15 days, over 350 flights have been subjected to similar hoax alerts, resulting in losses of hundreds of crores for airlines and causing significant delays for passengers.
The government, last Friday, directed social media platforms like X and Meta to curb this misinformation, warning of strict action if they failed to comply. However, the threats persist.
Union aviation minister Rammohan Naidu stated on Sunday, “We are taking support from international agencies, law enforcement, and the Intelligence Bureau to prevent these incidents. We plan to amend two civil aviation laws to impose severe penalties and punishments on those responsible. Additionally, we are taking steps to ban such individuals from flying. These measures will be announced in the coming days."
Meanwhile, airlines and passengers remain in a state of uncertainty due to the ongoing threats. “In line with our strict safety protocols, all necessary precautions are being taken, and we are working closely with the relevant authorities. The safety and security of our customers and crew remain our highest priority. We regret any inconvenience caused to our customers and appreciate their understanding during this time,” IndiGo stated.
Akasa announced on X (formerly Twitter): “Some of our flights operating on Oct 27, 2024, have received security alerts. The Akasa Air emergency response team is monitoring the situation and is in contact with security and regulatory authorities. We are following all safety and security procedures in coordination with local authorities, and our ground teams are prepared to assist passengers to ensure their safety and comfort.”
The government, last Friday, directed social media platforms like X and Meta to curb this misinformation, warning of strict action if they failed to comply. However, the threats persist.
Union aviation minister Rammohan Naidu stated on Sunday, “We are taking support from international agencies, law enforcement, and the Intelligence Bureau to prevent these incidents. We plan to amend two civil aviation laws to impose severe penalties and punishments on those responsible. Additionally, we are taking steps to ban such individuals from flying. These measures will be announced in the coming days."
Meanwhile, airlines and passengers remain in a state of uncertainty due to the ongoing threats. “In line with our strict safety protocols, all necessary precautions are being taken, and we are working closely with the relevant authorities. The safety and security of our customers and crew remain our highest priority. We regret any inconvenience caused to our customers and appreciate their understanding during this time,” IndiGo stated.
Akasa announced on X (formerly Twitter): “Some of our flights operating on Oct 27, 2024, have received security alerts. The Akasa Air emergency response team is monitoring the situation and is in contact with security and regulatory authorities. We are following all safety and security procedures in coordination with local authorities, and our ground teams are prepared to assist passengers to ensure their safety and comfort.”
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