Airlines Report 999 Hoax Bomb Threats Till November 2024; Government Files 256 FIRs

Airlines have faced 999 false bomb threats this year up to November 14, with 256 FIRs filed. The aviation security regulator, BCAS, has provided guidelines for assessing these threats, according to the government. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol shared this information in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

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Since August 2022, a total of 1,148 hoax bomb threat messages or calls have been reported, affecting both international and domestic flights. From January to November 14, 2024, airlines received 999 threats. In comparison, there were 122 threats last year and 27 during August-December 2022.

Security Measures and Arrests

Between January and November 14, 2024, authorities filed 256 FIRs related to these threats. Notably, 163 FIRs were lodged between October 14 and November 14, 2024. During this period, law enforcement made 12 arrests in connection with the hoax bomb threats.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has introduced guidelines to objectively assess these threats. These guidelines help the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) make quicker decisions. A virtual assembly system for BTAC meetings has been established to reduce convening time to under five minutes.

Enhanced Security Protocols

To bolster security, advisories have been issued for mandatory secondary ladder point checks on 10% of all flights. There is also strict monitoring of non-scheduled flight operations and increased security at cargo terminals. These measures aim to enhance overall safety in air travel.

The government is also considering changes to the Aircraft Security Rules, 2023. One proposal is to include individuals who issue hoax threats on a no-fly list. Additionally, amendments are being considered for laws addressing unlawful acts against civil aviation safety.

These steps reflect ongoing efforts to safeguard air travel from disruptions caused by false threats. By implementing stricter measures and updating regulations, authorities aim to deter such activities and maintain secure aviation operations.