Bomb Scare: Delhi’s IGIA Gets Threat Mail; AI Express Flight Evacuated

In a shocking incident, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) was thrown into chaos on Tuesday after receiving a bomb threat email targeting an Air India Express flight. The alert led to immediate evacuations and heightened security, raising concerns over aviation safety in India.

Timeline of the Bomb Threat at IGIA

Airport authorities confirmed that the threat email arrived around 11:30 AM, alleging a bomb on Air India Express flight IX-611 bound for Goa. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Delhi Police, and bomb squads swiftly responded:

• Passengers were evacuated from the aircraft.
• Terminal 3 was partially shut down, delaying flights.
• Sniffer dogs & scanners swept the plane and terminal.

Security Confirms Hoax, Investigation Underway

After a three-hour search, officials declared the threat a hoax. “No explosives were found. Operations are normalizing,” a CISF spokesperson said.

The Delhi Police Special Cell is investigating the email’s origin, suspected to be sent via VPN to avoid detection. Similar hoaxes have targeted Indian airports in recent months.

Passenger Reactions & Airline Response

Travelers faced major disruptions, with many stranded for hours. “We were told to evacuate without explanation—it was terrifying,” a passenger shared anonymously.

Air India Express apologized for delays, stating: “Safety is our priority. We’re cooperating with authorities.”

Are Hoax Threats Increasing?

This isn’t IGIA’s first bomb scare—a Vistara flight faced a similar false alarm in November 2023. Experts warn that repeated hoaxes waste resources and spread panic.

Government Steps Up Airport Security

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia ordered a review of threat protocols. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is exploring AI-based email monitoring to curb fake threats.

What Happens Next?

Authorities may invoke the UAPA against the sender if caught. Meanwhile, IGIA has resumed normal operations, but the event highlights gaps in cybersecurity and aviation safety.

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