India Sees Alarming Rise in Hoax Bomb Threats to Airlines in 2024

Airlines in India faced an unprecedented 719 hoax bomb threats in 2024, taking the total count to 809 over the last five years, according to data presented in Parliament. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, revealed the numbers in a written response to the Rajya Sabha.

The rise is stark compared to previous years. In 2020, there were only four such cases, followed by two in 2021. The numbers grew to 13 in 2022, 71 in 2023, and surged dramatically in 2024.

Robust Security Measures in Place

To counter this growing menace, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has implemented a Bomb Threat Contingency Plan (BTCP). This comprehensive plan outlines protocols for addressing bomb threats swiftly and effectively.

In addition, BCAS has issued advisories to aviation stakeholders to strengthen security and prevent unlawful interference in civil aviation operations.

Proposed Legal Amendments

Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu highlighted plans to amend existing laws to curb such threats. He proposed changes to the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Safety of Civil Aviation Act (SUASCA) and Aircraft Security Rules.

Key proposals include:

1. Adding perpetrators to a no-flying list.
2. Enabling stricter penalties under SUASCA for hoax bomb threat cases.

Naidu emphasized the need for legislative action to ensure that such incidents are met with serious consequences.

Impact on Civil Aviation

Hoax bomb threats not only disrupt flight operations but also cause panic among passengers and strain security resources. The government’s efforts to amend laws and enhance security protocols aim to deter such unlawful acts.