Air India Flight Returns to Mumbai After Hoax Bomb Threat Mid-Flight

NEW DELHI: A flight bound for New York from Mumbai was forced to return to its departure city on March 10, 2025, after a bomb threat was detected mid-flight. The threat, which was later confirmed to be a hoax, prompted the Boeing 777, carrying over 320 passengers, to turn back while flying over Azerbaijan.

Air India acknowledged the incident in a Monday statement, detailing that the airline proceeded with requisite security measures prior to deciding to bring the flight back to Mumbai. "A suspected security threat was identified en route on AI119, which was flying from Mumbai to New York (JFK)," said an Air India spokesman. "For the safety and security of all passengers on board, the flight flew back to Mumbai and landed safely at 10:25 AM local time." The airline further rescheduled the flight for 5:00 AM on Tuesday.

Travelers were given hotel stays, meals, and other aid while waiting for the rebooked flight. The airline did not fail to stress the care to avoid disruptions and ensure safety for everyone on board as well as the crew. "As always, Air India values the safety and well-being of its crew and passengers," the spokesperson further added.

Also read | Russian Air Defense Intercepts Drones Targeting Moscow; Flights Suspended at Major Airports

The threat was first found when one of the aircraft's washrooms contained a suspicious note by one of the crew members, and an instant reaction followed. The crew informed the pilot of the find, and security procedures were adhered to, with the flight returning to Mumbai. Security agencies conducted proper checks on the aircraft, where it was eventually confirmed that the bomb threat was a hoax.

This is one of a wider series of hoax bomb threats that have hit Indian aviation. Airline operators in India had a record 728 hoax bomb threats in 2024, and 13 people were arrested, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said. IndiGo was the most targeted by bomb hoax calls, followed by Air India and Vistara, BCAS said.

Also read | India Signs $248 Million Deal with Rosoboronexport to Upgrade T-72 Tank

As many as 680 hoax bomb calls were made in October 2024 alone, and from August 2023 through November 2024, 1,143 such threats were issued to Indian domestic airlines, the majority of which took place in 2024.

The fact that these threats have been repeated over time is bringing aviation security in India under the scanner, given that the authorities are still engaged in efforts to avoid disruptions and keep passengers safe.

Also read | TIH Weekly News Round Up: From Stealth Acquisition to Trump's 'Exposing' Claim