Mid-Air Security Scare for Air India Flight
Authorities in New Delhi received a concerning bomb threat targeting Air India flight AI188 traveling from Toronto to Delhi on Thursday, according to official sources quoted by PTI. The alert prompted immediate security protocols while the aircraft was still in flight, creating tense moments for passengers and crew alike.
Timeline of the Security Alert
The threatening message arrived around 11.30 am while the Boeing 777 aircraft was approximately four hours away from its Delhi destination. Delhi Police were immediately alerted about the potential security risk, initiating a coordinated response between air and ground security teams.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating: "On board crew carried out all the laid down security drills, keeping passenger safety & security as top priority." The crew's professional handling of the situation ensured calm was maintained throughout the remaining flight duration.
Threat Assessment and Safe Landing
The Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) at Delhi airport later classified the threat as "non-specific", indicating it lacked detailed information that would suggest immediate credibility. Despite this classification, authorities treated the situation with utmost seriousness given recent security concerns.
The aircraft successfully landed at Delhi airport at 3.40 pm, bringing relief to all onboard. Following standard security procedures, all passengers and crew disembarked safely as mandatory security checks were conducted upon arrival to ensure complete safety.
This security incident comes just days after the tragic blast near the Red Fort complex in the national capital that claimed 12 lives and injured several others, highlighting the ongoing security challenges facing the region.