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A handwritten threat note mid-air forced an IndiGo Kuwait–Delhi flight to divert to Ahmedabad, triggering a full-scale security response. What did the message say, and how did authorities handle the scare involving 180 passengers?
IndiGo Kuwait-Delhi flight makes emergency landing in Ahmedabad
New Delhi: An IndiGo flight en route from Kuwait to Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing at Ahmedabad airport early Friday after a handwritten threat note indicating a possible hijack and bomb attack was discovered onboard, triggering a major security alert.
The aircraft, carrying 180 passengers, landed safely in Ahmedabad at around 6.40 am, airport officials confirmed. The pilots initiated emergency procedures after the cabin crew alerted them about a handwritten note found inside the aircraft, warning of an attempt to hijack the plane and blow it up.
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Sources said the threatening message was written on a piece of tissue paper and was discovered during the flight, prompting immediate action by the cockpit crew. As per standard aviation security protocols, the aircraft was diverted to the nearest suitable airport to ensure passenger safety.
Upon landing, security agencies swiftly cordoned off the aircraft. All passengers were evacuated safely and escorted for detailed security screening. Their luggage was also separated and subjected to thorough checks by multiple security teams.
Airport authorities said each passenger is being individually identified and screened as part of the threat assessment process. Bomb detection and disposal teams were deployed, while intelligence and security agencies launched a coordinated operation to assess the credibility of the threat.
“So far, no suspicious object has been recovered. Security checks are continuing, and the flight will be allowed to resume operations only after final clearance from all concerned agencies,” an airport official said.
Officials emphasised that the response followed established threat-response procedures and was precautionary in nature. As of the latest update, no explosive material or suspicious item has been found on board the aircraft, though investigations remain ongoing.
Passengers were reported to be safe and calm, with airline staff assisting them throughout the evacuation and screening process.
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The incident comes close on the heels of a similar bomb threat involving an IndiGo flight earlier this month. On January 22, IndiGo flight 6E 2608 from Delhi to Pune received bomb threat information shortly after landing at Pune airport.
That aircraft was moved to an isolation bay, and the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) was convened. Following a comprehensive inspection by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), no suspicious items were found, and the flight was later cleared for normal operations.
Aviation authorities said such incidents underline the need for heightened vigilance and swift coordination among security agencies. Investigations are ongoing to trace the origin of the threat note and identify those responsible. Further updates are expected once security checks are completed and the probe progresses.
