Air India Flight Bomb Threat: Passengers Diverted to Delhi Amidst Security Scare
On Monday morning, passengers aboard Air India Flight AI 119, traveling from Mumbai to New York’s JFK Airport, were shaken by a bomb threat shortly after takeoff. The situation also alarmed the relatives of the passengers, as security agencies received information about the threat, leading to an urgent diversion of the flight to Delhi.
What Happened?
The flight departed Mumbai International Airport around 2 AM but was soon diverted from its intended route to New York. Passengers were informed that the aircraft was headed for Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, causing considerable confusion among those on board. The flight safely landed in Delhi at approximately 4:10 AM. All passengers were disembarked without incident, and the aircraft underwent a thorough inspection.
A senior police officer stated, “Currently, the aircraft is parked at Indira Gandhi International Airport. All guidelines and standard protocols are being followed for the safety of the passengers and other staff on board.”
Source of the Threat
Reports indicate that the bomb threat originated from social media. The police confirmed that after the flight landed in Delhi, passengers were initially advised to keep their luggage on the plane while a complete safety check was conducted.
Air India’s Response
Air India’s spokesperson commented on the situation, stating, “A bomb threat was received on October 14 for flight AI 119 from Mumbai to New York. The plane was then diverted to Delhi following government safety guidelines. All the passengers have been disembarked and are currently safe in the Delhi airport terminal. Our colleagues are working to minimize any inconvenience to the passengers. The safety of passengers and staff is Air India’s highest priority.”