As the cases of air turbulence and plane crashes are increasing with each passing day; another threat seems to loom, raising questions on flight safety. Bomb threats. Although thankfully all the bomb threats received these days have been flagged as hoaxes, the inconvenience passengers face due to delays, flight re-routes, flight returns and flight cancellations cannot be overlooked. Continue reading to know what airlines do when they receive a hoax bomb threat on flight.

Last week an Air India Mumbai to New York JFK flight had to return about 8 hours after take off due to a hoax bomb threat. Similarly, an American Airlines New York to Delhi flight was diverted to Rome after it received a threat on February 22. There have been numerous instances of airline bomb hoax in the past few months. Here’s how airlines respond to security threats immediately. 

Immediate Response of Airlines 

When an airline receives a bomb threat, the situation is taken seriously. Several security protocols are immediately activated. Safety of passengers and crew onboard is priority. The crew, airport authorities and law enforcement agencies work together to evaluate the risk. Each moment is crucial after receiving a hoax bomb threat on flight. Furthermore, quick decisions are made to ensure passenger and crew safety.

Communication and Coordination

Once any sort of security threat is reported, the airline informs airport security and other relevant agencies. Then the Air traffic control (ATC) is alerted. Emergency teams are also put on standby. In case the threat is received during the flight, the pilot communicates with ATC for further instructions. Notably, coordination between ground staff, security personnel and law enforcement is essential.

Aircraft Handling

In case the aircraft is on the ground, it is isolated from terminals and runways. Passengers and crew are then evacuated swiftly but in an orderly manner. Later, security teams conduct thorough checks using bomb detection units and trained sniffer dogs. If the aircraft is in the air, the pilot may divert to the nearest airport for an emergency landing as instructed by the ATC or law enforcement agency.

Passenger and Crew Safety

Ensuring the safety of passengers and crew is the top priority. Inside the flight, passengers are kept calm while the crew follows safety protocols. On the ground, security teams escort passengers to safe zones. Furthermore, authorities interview passengers and crew to gather information about any suspicious activity.

Also Read: Tips to Stay Safe During Turbulence in Flight 

Investigation and Search

Once the aircraft is secured, bomb disposal squads inspect the plane thoroughly. Luggage, cargo and even cabins are scanned using advanced detection equipment. If no threat is found, the aircraft is cleared for normal operations. The airline and law enforcement then begin tracing the source of the hoax.

Legal Consequences

By law, making a false bomb threat is a serious offense. It leads to stringent legal action against the culprit. Airlines work with law enforcement to track the source of the call, email, or message. Furthermore, those responsible may face criminal charges, heavy fines and even imprisonment.

Operational Disruptions

A hoax flight bomb threat disrupts airline schedules. Flights are delayed, canceled, or rerouted, causing inconvenience to passengers. Airlines may also suffer financial losses due to operational disruptions, security expenses, and customer refunds.

Passenger Assistance

Airlines also need to provide assistance to affected passengers. Alternative flights, accommodation, and refunds may be offered. Customer service teams handle queries and concerns to minimize inconvenience. In case your USA-India flight is affected due to a hoax, you can also contact the Indian Eagle 24/7 customer service team to get assistance for all your queries. 

What preventive measures do airlines take? 

In order to prevent future hoaxes, airlines enhance security measures. Advanced screening, passenger profiling, and AI-driven threat detection help improve safety. Notably, staff also undergo regular training to handle such incidents efficiently.

A hoax bomb threat on flight creates chaos. However, strict protocols help manage the situation. Airlines, security forces and even law enforcement work together to ensure safety. While false threats waste resources, they also reinforce the importance of stringent security measures in aviation.

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Was there a hoax bomb threat on flight you were flying in? What additional protocols do you think airlines should take to avoid inconvenience to passengers? Comment below and share your thoughts with us. 

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