NEW DELHI: Early Tuesday morning, a bomb threat prompted emergency evacuation procedures for passengers aboard an IndiGo flight at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The Varanasi-bound aircraft was subjected to an urgent security protocol following the discovery of a threatening note.
The incident unfolded around 5am when authorities were alerted to a message found in the aircraft’s lavatory. The note ominously read “bomb @5.30,” triggering an immediate response from airport security and law enforcement. In accordance with established security measures, all 176 passengers and crew were evacuated through the aircraft’s emergency exits. “Around 5am, information was received about a paper found in the lavatory of an IndiGo flight scheduled to depart for Varanasi, with the phrase ‘bomb @5.30’ written on it,” stated a senior police officer involved in the operation.
The IndiGo spokesperson confirmed the evacuation, noting that the aircraft was subsequently relocated to a remote bay for a thorough inspection. “All necessary protocols were followed, and the aircraft was moved to a remote bay as per airport security guidelines,” the spokesperson said. “All passengers were safely evacuated via the emergency exits,” they added.
After an exhaustive search by the bomb disposal squad and security personnel, no suspicious items were found on board, leading authorities to declare the threat a hoax. “Further investigation is underway,” confirmed the senior police officer. This incident highlights the critical importance of stringent security protocols at airports, especially in the face of potential threats. Despite the false alarm, the swift and efficient response by airport authorities ensured the safety of all passengers and crew, underscoring the effectiveness of emergency preparedness measures in place.
As investigations continue, this episode serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required to maintain safety and security in air travel. The prompt action taken by IndiGo and airport security mitigated potential panic and ensured minimal disruption, reinforcing confidence in the measures designed to protect passengers and staff
