Indian skies are safe, finding a solution for hoax bomb threats: Civil Aviation officials

In the last couple of days, we saw multiple reports of hoax bomb threats. On Sunday alone, an Indian Express report said that around 24 flights received fake bomb threats that disrupted operations. The number of threats received over the week is reportedly around 100. Although most of the threats have proven to be false alarms, the disruptions have been widespread, forcing airlines and security authorities to take emergency measures.

The safety of passengers remains the top priority as authorities respond quickly to each incident, but the constant stream of threats has placed immense pressure on both airlines and airport security teams. Flights have been delayed, and operations have been interrupted, as investigations into the source of these hoaxes continue. Some travellers are also getting afraid of travelling by air. However, as per a civil aviation official, the Indian skies are safe and people shouldn't be hesitant in flying.

Civil aviation official on bomb threats

The Ministry of Civil Aviation is taking decisive steps to address the growing number of hoax bomb threats that have recently plagued Indian airlines, an ANI report says. Asangba Chuba Ao, Joint Secretary of the Ministry, confirmed that the aviation security regulator is actively working on concrete solutions to this ongoing issue.

“These hoax bomb threats are being taken very seriously by the aviation regulator. They are focused on finding strong solutions,” Ao stated in a press briefing on Sunday.

"Indian skies are safe"

On Saturday, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) held discussions with CEOs of several airlines to find ways to reduce the disruptions caused by these false threats. The BCAS Director General, Zulfiquar Hasan, reassured the public that Indian airspace remains safe, and protocols are in place to deal with these incidents. Hasan also highlighted that security agencies are collaborating closely with airlines to resolve the problem.

“Indian skies are absolutely safe,” Hasan said, urging passengers to remain calm and continue flying with confidence. “The current security protocols are robust, and we are working diligently to put an end to these hoax calls. Passengers should feel reassured and encouraged to fly without fear.”

During the meeting with airline executives, various security concerns were raised, particularly as the festive season leads to increased air travel and the potential for airport congestion. The airline representatives expressed the strain caused by the surge in hoax bomb threats, which have placed a heavy burden on both airlines and security personnel.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is also collaborating with other government bodies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and the law ministry, to introduce stricter penalties for those making false bomb threats. Officials have proposed amendments to the Aircraft Act of 1934 and the Aircraft Rules of 1937 to impose harsher sentences, including a five-year imprisonment and placement on a no-fly list for individuals found guilty of making hoax bomb threats.

A special committee will be established to draft these amendments, ensuring that India’s aviation security laws are updated to prevent future disruptions and protect the safety of passengers.

(with ANI inputs)