A total of 85 flights operated by IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and Akasa Air received bomb threats on Thursday, raising concerns across the aviation sector.
These threats have brought the total number of impacted flights to over 250 in the past ten days, triggering security alerts and inconveniencing passengers.
The threats, many of which were reportedly shared via social media platforms, have left authorities scrambling to maintain safety while preventing disruptions.
Earlier, more than 170 flights faced similar threats, which were later confirmed to be hoaxes.
Despite the lack of credible danger, the sheer volume of threats has created a security headache for paramilitary personnel and aviation authorities alike.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has responded firmly, announcing that making bomb hoax calls to airlines will soon be categorised as a cognisable offence, with stricter penalties for those responsible.
Additionally, individuals found guilty of making such threats could be placed on a no-fly list.
"The government is following all necessary protocols and remains in control of the situation," Naidu said in an exclusive interview with India Today TV. While addressing the potential for a larger conspiracy behind the threats, Naidu advised caution, stating, "I wouldn’t make any hasty decision on this. Let us wait for a thorough investigation."
Authorities have reported that the threats are originating primarily from anonymous posts on social media platform X.
The platform meanwhile is facing criticism for its handling of the situation, with the central government accusing it of "abetting crime." In response, some accounts associated with the bomb threats have been suspended.
The Delhi Police has already filed eight cases related to the bomb threats, and a senior police official revealed that investigations are ongoing to trace the origin of the threats.
The use of VPNs to disguise IP addresses has further complicated the investigation, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact source of the threats.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) held a meeting with CEOs and representatives of Indian airlines in Delhi on October 19 to address the crisis and ensure that enhanced security measures are in place.
Naidu emphasised the involvement of social media in the spread of these threats, noting that while some IP addresses may point to foreign locations, these could easily be rerouted.
"We are putting in all the efforts that are required, so that our skies are safe," Naidu reassured the public. Authorities remain on high alert, and travellers have been urged to cooperate with enhanced security checks as investigations continue.
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