An Air India Express flight from Mumbai to Dubai was forced to make an emergency landing in Ahmedabad on Tuesday after a bomb threat was discovered in the aircraft's lavatory. The flight, carrying 167 passengers and 6 crew members, landed safely at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport around 10:30 PM.
Details of the Incident
The pilot of the Air India Express flight, identified as Flight IX 141, received a warning from the cabin crew about a suspicious note found in the lavatory. The note contained a bomb threat, prompting the pilot to declare an emergency and divert the plane to the nearest suitable airport, which was Ahmedabad.
Immediate Response
Upon landing, the aircraft was immediately isolated on the tarmac, and all passengers were evacuated using emergency slides. Security agencies, including the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) and the Gujarat Police, conducted a thorough search of the aircraft. After a detailed inspection, no explosive device was found, and the threat was declared a hoax.
Passenger Safety
All 167 passengers and 6 crew members were safely evacuated. Passengers were taken to a secure area and later provided with refreshments. Air India Express arranged alternative flights for the passengers to continue their journey to Dubai.
This incident comes amid heightened security measures in the aviation sector following recent bomb threats. Authorities have launched an investigation to identify the person responsible for the hoax threat. The airline has stated that it will cooperate fully with the investigation.
The incident caused temporary disruptions at the Ahmedabad airport, but operations resumed shortly after the aircraft was cleared. Air India Express expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and assured that safety remains their top priority.
