Airlines have stated that all security protocols were followed after bomb threats were received for both international and domestic flights.

New Delhi [India], October 22: Major Indian airlines, including Indigo, Vistara, and Air India, received bomb threats for both international and domestic flights on Monday night. After ensuring the safe disembarkation of passengers, Indigo confirmed that they were working closely with relevant authorities and following standard operating procedures.

In a press release, Indigo revealed that they had received security alerts for nearly 10 flights, including both domestic and international routes. The flights involved were 6E 164 (domestic), 6E 75 (international), 6E 118 (domestic), 6E 67 (international), 6E 18 (international), 6E 83 (international), 6E 77 (international), 6E 12 (international), 6E 65 (international), and 6E 63 (international).

Most of the international flights affected were either heading to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, or returning to India from Istanbul, Turkey.

"Upon landing, the aircraft was taken to the isolation bay, and all passengers were safely disembarked. At IndiGo, the safety and security of our passengers and crew remain a top priority in all operations. We worked closely with the relevant authorities, and standard procedures were followed. We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused and appreciate our customers' understanding," said Indigo in a press statement.

Vistara Airlines also confirmed receiving security threats via social media and promptly followed protocol.

"We confirm that a few of Vistara’s flights on October 21, 2024, received security threats on social media. We immediately alerted the relevant authorities and are adhering to all security procedures as directed. The safety of our passengers, crew, and aircraft is of utmost importance," a Vistara spokesperson stated.

Earlier on Monday, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced that the ministry had ordered enhanced security checks at airports to ensure passenger safety without causing additional inconvenience.

The minister explained that a private network had been used to issue the bomb threats on social media, and agencies under the Ministry of Home Affairs were working to identify those responsible. The individuals involved will be placed on a no-fly list.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is maintaining continuous communication with the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding the bomb threats targeting flights.