Air India Express flight receives bomb threat, IndiGo reports security alerts across five airports

A major security alert was triggered on Wednesday after an Air India Express flight bound for Varanasi received a bomb threat mid-air. The airline immediately activated its emergency protocol, alerting the government-appointed Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC).

In an official statement, the airline said, “One of our flights to Varanasi received a security threat. The flight landed safely, and all guests have been disembarked. The aircraft will resume operations once all mandated security checks are completed.” Security forces quickly began inspections to ensure the aircraft’s safety before clearing it for service.

IndiGo and Five Airports on High Alert

In a related development, IndiGo Airlines also reported receiving digital security threats for five major airports, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Thiruvananthapuram. Sources said the threats were sent through alternative digital channels instead of email and were flagged by security agencies earlier in the day.

Nationwide Vigil After Red Fort Blast

The twin threats come just days after a car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort metro station claimed 12 lives, prompting a nationwide security alert. Police have since seized nearly 2,900 kilograms of explosives in operations across Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, believed to be linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind networks.

Tightened Security Across India

Following the incidents, airports, railway stations, and metro networks are on high alert, with passengers at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport advised to arrive early due to extended screening. Authorities continue investigations, maintaining strict vigilance to ensure public safety amid heightened tensions.