Headline: SpiceJet and Others Targeted in Bomb Threats: 10 Flights Affected
Bomb Threats Shake Airlines: Over 10 Flights Impacted in Two Days
In a disturbing series of incidents, more than ten flights received bomb threats in just two days, raising alarm across the aviation industry. Airline passengers faced delays and precautionary landings as authorities scrambled to handle the threats, which originated from a social media platform. SpiceJet confirmed that two of its flights were among those affected on Wednesday, demonstrating the vulnerability of air travel in today’s digital age.
Growing Concerns in the Aviation Sector
On Wednesday, a SpiceJet spokesperson acknowledged that their official X handle received a direct message about a bomb threat affecting two of their flights. “The concerned authorities were immediately informed, and the laid down safety protocols were followed. Passengers on both aircraft disembarked safely,” the spokesperson stated. This follows a pattern of similar threats impacting numerous other flights, sparking significant concern not only among airline passengers but also among aviation security experts.
In the detailed analysis of incidents, seven flights were either diverted or made precautionary landings due to the bomb scares issued by an X user, with at least four flights receiving threats on Wednesday alone. These included two SpiceJet planes, highlighting the need for robust security measures and swift responses from airlines and authorities alike.
Extent of the Threats
The timeline of events reveals an alarming trend. On Monday, three international flights originating from Mumbai, including an Air India New York-bound flight, faced bomb threats. While the Air India flight was diverted to New Delhi and subsequently rescheduled, two IndiGo flights encountered several hours of delays.
By Tuesday, the situation escalated, with seven flights, including one bound for the United States, receiving bomb-threat messages through social media channels. Official sources stated that specific counter-terrorism drills were initiated at various airports in response to the threats, underscoring the heightened security measures being adopted in this precarious situation.
Threaten Flights Include:
- Air India Express flight IX765 from Jaipur to Bengaluru
- SpiceJet flight SG116 from Darbhanga to Mumbai
- Akasa Air flight QP1373 from Bagdogra to Bengaluru
- Air India flight AI127 from Delhi to Chicago
- IndiGo flight 6E 98 from Dammam to Lucknow
- Alliance Air flight 9I 650 from Amritsar-Dehradun-Delhi
- Air India Express flight IX684 from Madurai to Singapore
Legal Action and Investigations
In response to the recent threats, the Delhi Police registered an FIR on Wednesday at the IGI airport police station. This investigation aims to uncover the individuals behind the threats issued via social media. Authorities mentioned that the number of FIRs may increase as the investigation unfolds. Furthermore, the issue was brought before a parliamentary committee where civil aviation authorities indicated that steps are being taken to identify and penalize those responsible for the hoaxes.
In a notable development, Mumbai Police issued notices to a teenage boy and others from Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, requesting them to appear for questioning related to the social media posts that targeted several flights.
Implications for Technology and Public Safety
The reliance on social media platforms for disseminating bomb threats raises pressing questions about security surveillance and regulatory measures in the digital domain. As technology enthusiasts and professionals note, social media can be a double-edged sword. While it allows for instant communication, it can also be exploited for illegal activities, leading to severe consequences for aviation security and public safety.
Experts believe that airlines may need to enhance their security protocols, incorporating advanced technology to monitor social media for threats. Implementing algorithms to identify potential threats in real-time could be a proactive way to mitigate risks associated with digital communications.
Reader Engagement
As this situation continues to develop, what are your thoughts on the security measures being implemented in light of these threats? How can technology better aid airports and airlines in managing security risks? Share your insights and join the conversation below!
For those looking to explore more about the intersection of technology and aviation security, check out related articles on Shorty-News or external experts like TechCrunch and Wired for up-to-date insights. Your engagement can drive awareness and solutions to strengthen air travel security in our increasingly connected world.
