Bomb Threat Hoaxes Disrupt Indian Airlines: Security Measures Tightened

Indian airlines grapple with a surge of hoax bomb threats, prompting an urgent meeting at BCAS headquarters in Delhi. Authorities assure heightened security measures, and plans are underway to amend laws for stricter penalties. Spice Jet and Air Asia are among the affected, receiving multiple threats.

In the wake of numerous hoax bomb threats targeting Indian airlines over the past four days, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) convened a critical meeting in Delhi on Saturday. Led by Director General Zulfiquar Hasan, the session focused on addressing the persistent security challenges airlines face.

Representatives from various airlines shared their concerns about the impact of these threats, particularly during the bustling festive season which could intensify airport congestion. BCAS emphasized the necessity for stringent adherence to safety protocols, while assuring that collaborative efforts with relevant agencies are ongoing to identify the sources of these threats.

The wave of unfounded threats has strained the resources of airlines, security teams, and passengers. Already, specific carriers like Spice Jet and Air Asia have reported multiple incidents. Efforts are underway by India's Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) to collaborate with other ministries to revise existing laws, aiming for tougher penalties for such disruptive hoaxes.

Persons found guilty of issuing false threats face potential placement on a no-fly list, and a committee is set to draft revisions to the Aircraft Act, 1934, and Aircraft Rules, 1937. Proposed changes include five-year imprisonment sentences for offenders, signaling a zero-tolerance stance against aviation-related threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)