Asangba Chuba Ao, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, has indicated that the aviation security authority is actively seeking effective solutions to address the persistent issue of hoax bomb threats directed at Indian airlines. “This matter of hoax bomb threats is being taken very seriously by the aviation regulator, and they are working diligently to find concrete solutions,” Ao told reporters on Sunday.
On Saturday, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the agency responsible for aviation security, convened a meeting with various airline CEOs to explore strategies for minimizing the disruptions caused by these hoax threats. BCAS Director General Zulfiquar Hasan confirmed that they are collaborating with relevant security agencies and airlines to address the issue. He assured the public that efforts are underway to reduce these false threats promptly.
Hasan reiterated the safety of Indian airspace, encouraging travelers to fly without apprehension: “The skies over India are completely secure. The current protocols for handling such situations are strong and are being rigorously enforced. We urge passengers to fly without fear and, in fact, to increase their air travel.”
During the meeting with airline representatives, discussions were held regarding the safety and security challenges, particularly during the festive season when airport congestion is expected. BCAS officials reassured airline representatives that they are working closely with relevant agencies to identify the root causes of these hoax threats.
The repeated threats have placed considerable strain on airlines, security forces, and passengers, complicating efforts to maintain operational stability during this busy time. In the past few days, airlines such as SpiceJet and AirAsia each received five bomb threats, contributing to a total of30 threats reported across multiple airlines.
According to official sources, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is engaging with other relevant ministries to amend existing laws to impose stricter penalties for hoax bomb threats against flights. Offenders will face being placed on a no-fly list. Additionally, a committee will be established in consultation with the law ministry and the Ministry of Home Affairs to draft amendments to the Aircraft Act of1934 and the Aircraft Rules of1937, aiming for penalties including a five-year prison term and no-fly list placement for those issuing hoax bomb threats.