New Delhi: An Air India flight from Mumbai to New York was diverted to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday, October 14, after the airline received a bomb threat. The flight, AI119, took off at approximately 2 am but was immediately redirected to Delhi, where it remains grounded.
All standard safety protocols are being followed to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. The aircraft is currently stationed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, with security agencies on high alert.
According to sources, Mumbai airport received a message on X (formerly Twitter) regarding the bomb threat, prompting authorities to divert the aircraft to Delhi. The Air India spokesperson released a statement, saying the diversion was due to a specific security alert and instructions from the government's security regulatory committee.
Passenger Safety Ensured
All passengers have disembarked and are at the Delhi airport terminal. Air India is working to minimize the inconvenience caused by this unexpected disruption ². The airline prioritizes the safety and security of its passengers and crew.
Recent Air India Incidents
This incident comes just days after an Air India Express Sharjah-bound flight from Tiruchirappalli experienced a mid-air technical glitch ¹. The pilots' quick thinking prevented an accident, saving 141 passengers. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin commended the pilots and crew for their safe landing.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the technical snag is being investigated, and an alternative aircraft is being arranged for the onward journey ¹. Air India regrets the inconvenience and reiterates its commitment to prioritizing safety.
Similar Bomb Threats
This is not the first bomb threat incident this year. Last month, a Vistara flight from Mumbai to Frankfurt was diverted to Turkey after a bomb threat note was discovered. In August, a bomb threat prompted a full emergency at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for an Air India flight from Mumbai.