Government’s Plan to Counter Airline Bomb Threats

The recent surge in bomb threats targeting airlines in India has prompted a swift response from the central government. With 19 hoax bomb alerts reported between October 14 and 16, the authorities have rolled out measures to counter airline bomb threats, which include increasing security presence, deploying more sky marshals, and taking legal action against those responsible.

Heightened Security Measures

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) have initiated several steps to address these security concerns. Besides consulting with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the government has instructed these agencies to submit detailed reports on the bomb threats received by airlines last week.

Cyber units have been alerted to trace the origin of emails associated with the threats, many of which were masked and originated from foreign sources. Accounts connected to these threats have been shut down, as authorities aim to counter airline bomb threats efficiently.

Increased Deployment of Air Marshals

In light of the increasing number of bomb threats, the Indian government has decided to boost the deployment of air marshals on sensitive flight routes. These air marshals are specially trained personnel who covertly travel on civilian flights to ensure passenger safety. They carry concealed firearms and are ready to intervene in potential hijacking scenarios.

A senior official from the Ministry of Home Affairs noted that the new deployments of sky marshals would target specific international routes identified as high-risk by intelligence agencies. This increased presence is expected to serve as a strong deterrent to those looking to disrupt air travel through fake threats. By enhancing their deployment, the government is aiming to counter airline bomb threats more effectively.

Action Taken Against Recent Hoax Threats

The crackdown on individuals behind these threats is another critical step. Recently, a 17-year-old boy from Chandigarh was taken into custody for issuing a series of bomb threats against various airlines. The investigation revealed that he had created a social media account in the name of a friend, with whom he had a dispute, to frame him. The Mumbai Police took swift action, detaining the minor and questioning his father as part of the investigation.

The government is also considering adding those who issue false bomb threats to a no-fly list. This proposal, initially suggested by the BCAS in June 2024, is now being taken seriously due to the recent uptick in threats. The no-fly list aims to prevent troublemakers from boarding flights, further strengthening efforts to counter airline bomb threats.

Understanding Bomb Threat Protocols

While many bomb threats turn out to be false, aviation authorities treat each one with utmost seriousness to ensure passenger safety. When a threat is received, authorities follow a strict protocol that includes assessing the threat’s credibility. A special committee, comprising airport operators and security agencies like the IB, evaluates the threat to determine whether it is specific (indicating a real security risk) or non-specific (indicating a likely hoax).

If a threat is considered specific, the aircraft is diverted to a nearby airport, and all passengers are asked to deplane. A thorough security screening is conducted for the plane, passengers, and their luggage before allowing the flight to resume. In cases where the threat is deemed non-specific, the authorities may proceed without a full-scale security drill.

Support from Passengers is Crucial

Passengers play a vital role in the process of handling bomb threats. Cooperation with the crew and security agencies ensures that safety protocols are followed efficiently. It is essential for passengers to stay calm and avoid spreading rumors, as this can cause unnecessary panic.

Passengers should also report any suspicious behavior or items discreetly to the crew. Information provided by vigilant passengers can assist authorities in investigating the source of threats. These collaborative efforts contribute to the broader mission to counter airline bomb threats and ensure a safe travel environment.

Legal Actions and Airline Concerns

Airlines are urging the government to address the issue of hoax bomb threats more aggressively. They argue that such incidents lead to significant operational disruptions, financial losses, and passenger inconvenience. For example, Air India has indicated that it may pursue legal action against those responsible for recent hoax threats to recover costs.

The government has assured airlines that it is committed to enhancing safety protocols and taking legal measures against individuals who issue false threats. By implementing these measures, the authorities hope to counter airline bomb threats, maintain smooth operations, and restore passenger confidence.

Conclusion

The recent bomb threats targeting domestic and international flights have put the spotlight on the government’s security measures. The combination of increased deployment of air marshals, strict enforcement of no-fly lists, and legal action against culprits reflects a multi-layered approach to counter airline bomb threats. With the cooperation of passengers and a heightened focus on security, the government aims to ensure safe and seamless air travel for all.