AviationSecurity – Bomb Threat Forces IndiGo Flight Into Isolation Bay
AviationSecurity – A Shillong-bound flight at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport was shifted to an isolation bay on Saturday morning after a handwritten note claiming the presence of a bomb was found onboard. Authorities confirmed that the situation was handled in line with established aviation security protocols.
The incident occurred before passengers could fully board IndiGo flight 6E3074, which was scheduled to depart at 9:15 am for Shillong. The note was reportedly discovered inside the aircraft’s lavatory during the boarding process, prompting immediate action by the crew.
Note Found During Boarding
According to airport officials, crew members came across a piece of paper in the toilet compartment stating that an explosive device had been placed on the aircraft. The discovery triggered an emergency response, and passengers were quickly escorted off the plane as a precaution.
The aircraft was then moved to a designated isolation bay at the airport. Such bays are specifically meant for situations involving security alerts, ensuring that other airport operations remain unaffected while thorough checks are conducted.
The director of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport confirmed that standard safety procedures were activated as soon as the note was found. Security agencies, including the airport police and bomb detection teams, were informed without delay.
Comprehensive Security Checks Underway
Officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) stated that the aircraft was being subjected to a detailed search. Bomb disposal squads and security personnel examined the cabin, cargo hold, and all compartments as part of the inspection process.
As of the latest update, no suspicious object or explosive device had been located on the aircraft. Authorities, however, emphasized that checks would continue until the aircraft is declared safe for operations.
An AAI spokesperson reiterated that all actions taken were in accordance with standard operating procedures designed to address potential aviation security threats. These protocols require immediate evacuation, aircraft isolation, and comprehensive screening whenever a bomb threat is reported, whether written or verbal.
Impact on Passengers and Flight Operations
Passengers scheduled to travel on the affected flight were deboarded calmly and guided to the terminal area. Airport staff assisted travelers while security teams carried out their duties. Officials did not immediately confirm whether the flight would be rescheduled later in the day.
Despite the disruption, airport authorities stated that other flight operations at Kolkata Airport continued without significant interruption. The use of the isolation bay helped ensure that routine departures and arrivals were not affected by the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
Security agencies have initiated an inquiry to determine the origin of the handwritten note. Investigators are expected to review CCTV footage and speak with airport personnel and passengers as part of the probe.
Authorities have consistently cautioned that even hoax threats are treated with utmost seriousness due to the sensitive nature of civil aviation security. Any individual found responsible for issuing a false bomb threat can face strict legal consequences under aviation and criminal laws.
Airport officials assured travelers that passenger safety remains the highest priority. They also urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security checks whenever required.
The incident highlights the layered security framework in place at major Indian airports, where rapid response mechanisms are activated at the slightest hint of risk. While no explosive device has been found so far, officials indicated that the aircraft would only be cleared for service after a complete and conclusive inspection.