An IndiGo flight traveling from Delhi to Bagdogra in West Bengal faced a serious security scare early this morning. The aircraft was forced to divert to Lucknow Airport after authorities received a bomb threat.
Emergency Landing in Lucknow
The flight, identified as IndiGo 6E-6650, made an emergency landing at Lucknow Airport at 9:17 am. This decision came after the Air Traffic Control received information about the threat at approximately 8:46 am.
Handwritten Note on Tissue Paper
The bomb threat originated from a handwritten note discovered inside the aircraft. The note, written on a tissue paper, contained the chilling message "Plane mein bomb" which translates to "bomb in the plane" in English. Crew members found this note in one of the plane's lavatories.
Immediate Security Response
Upon landing safely in Lucknow, the aircraft was immediately moved to an isolation bay. Security agencies including the Bomb Detection Squad and Central Industrial Security Force personnel conducted thorough searches of the entire plane. They examined every compartment to ensure no explosive devices were present.
Passenger and Crew Safety
The flight carried 238 people including:
- 222 adult passengers
- 8 infants
- 7 crew members (2 pilots and 5 cabin crew)
All passengers and crew members remained safe throughout the incident. Airport authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported and everyone was evacuated from the aircraft following security protocols.
Official Statement
The Bagdogra airport director provided details about the incident through a statement to news agency ANI. He confirmed the safe landing in Lucknow and the subsequent security measures taken by authorities. The director emphasized that all standard operating procedures were followed to ensure passenger safety.
Investigation Underway
Security agencies have launched a full investigation into the source of the threatening note. Authorities are examining the tissue paper for forensic evidence and reviewing cabin surveillance footage to identify who might have placed the note in the lavatory. Such incidents trigger immediate security protocols at Indian airports, with multiple agencies coordinating response efforts.
This marks another security scare for Indian aviation, coming at a time when airports across the country maintain heightened alert levels. IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, has faced similar threats in the past, though most turn out to be hoaxes designed to cause disruption.
The aircraft remains at Lucknow Airport as investigations continue. Passengers will be accommodated on alternative flights to reach their original destination of Bagdogra once security clearance is obtained.
