India Tackles Surge in Hoax Bomb Threats

An unprecedented wave of hoax bomb threats has disrupted Indian airlines, affecting over 120 flights in less than two weeks, according to the Press Trust of India. The threats have been made via social media, emails, and even written on washroom walls, forcing airlines to divert flights and make emergency landings. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced plans for new regulations that would place hoax callers on a no-fly list and recognize such threats as offenses deserving investigation and prosecution without a warrant. Recent incidents include two IndiGo flights that received threats, which were later confirmed to be hoaxes, leading to security protocols being followed. Travelers are expressing concern, with some reconsidering their holiday plans as the Diwali season approaches, while travel operators struggle to provide assurances about flight safety. Despite the inconveniences, some seasoned travelers remain unfazed, planning to arrive early for their flights to accommodate security checks.