A routine journey from Saudi Arabia to Delhi turned into a security scare on Monday after an Air India Express flight from Dammam was diverted to Ahmedabad following the discovery of a suspected bomb threat inside the aircraft.
The flight, carrying 32 passengers, was en route to Delhi when a member of the cabin crew found a piece of tissue paper in one of the lavatories with the word “bomb” written on it. The crew immediately alerted the pilots, following which the aircraft was diverted to Ahmedabad as a precaution.
Aircraft lands safely in Ahmedabad
The aircraft landed at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at around 4:30 pm on Monday.
Following the landing, all 32 passengers were safely deboarded at Terminal 2 and moved through the prescribed security procedures. No injuries were reported.
The aircraft was subsequently moved for detailed security checks.
Multiple agencies join security operation
The discovery of the threatening message prompted authorities to activate aviation security protocols.
Security personnel, including the CISF, bomb disposal teams, fire services and other airport security agencies, were involved in the inspection of the aircraft and surrounding areas.
Authorities also examined the aircraft, passenger baggage and other relevant areas as part of the precautionary response.
No explosive material found in initial checks
According to police and other reports, the detailed search did not reveal any bomb, explosive device or other suspicious material.
However, authorities continued their investigation into who placed the note inside the aircraft's lavatory and whether the message was intended as a hoax threat.
Air India Express activates bomb-threat protocol
An Air India Express spokesperson said the aircraft was diverted to Ahmedabad after the airline was informed of a specific bomb threat.
The government-appointed Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) was alerted immediately, and established security procedures were initiated. The airline said the aircraft would only be released for further operations after the required security checks were completed.
Investigation underway
Ahmedabad Police are investigating the origin of the threatening note. Officials said further action would follow after the security assessment and questioning process.
The incident highlights the strict security procedures followed by airlines and airports whenever even an unverified threat is discovered onboard an aircraft.
With all passengers safely evacuated and no explosive material reportedly found during the initial search, authorities are now focused on identifying the source of the message and determining whether it was a deliberate hoax.
