IndiGo Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Lucknow Following Bomb Threat Alert
An IndiGo Airlines flight traveling from Delhi to Bagdogra faced a serious security scare on Sunday morning. The aircraft was diverted to Lucknow Airport after authorities received a bomb threat while it was mid-air.
Timeline of Events and Immediate Response
Air Traffic Control received the alarming alert at 8.46 am concerning flight number 6E-6650. The pilot promptly initiated emergency procedures. The aircraft executed an emergency landing at Lucknow Airport at 9.17 am.
Airport officials immediately moved the plane to an isolation bay upon touchdown. They established a secure perimeter around the aircraft to ensure safety.
Discovery of Threatening Note and Initial Investigation
During preliminary checks, security personnel made a concerning discovery. They found a handwritten note on tissue paper inside the rear lavatory of the aircraft. The note contained a clear threat stating "Bomb on the plane".
Authorities also confirmed another significant detail during their initial assessment. The aircraft was transporting radioactive material in its luggage compartment. This material consisted of cancer medicine that carried proper No Objection Certificates.
Comprehensive Security Response and Assessment
Given the seriousness of the situation, authorities constituted the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee. This committee took charge of evaluating the threat and coordinating response efforts.
Quick Reaction Teams swiftly cordoned off the entire aircraft area. Bomb disposal squads arrived at the scene along with multiple security agencies. These teams conducted thorough checks of the aircraft and its contents.
Security personnel meticulously examined every section of the plane. They left no area unchecked in their search for potential threats.
Passenger Safety and Airline Statement
The flight carried 222 passengers, eight infants, two pilots, and five crew members. All passengers and crew members were safely evacuated from the aircraft immediately after landing.
IndiGo Airlines issued a statement addressing the situation. "Following the established protocol, we informed the relevant authorities immediately and are fully cooperating with them in carrying out the necessary security checks", the statement read.
The airline emphasized their commitment to passenger comfort during the disruption. "We are making all efforts to minimise inconvenience to our customers, including offering them refreshments and sharing regular updates", they added.
IndiGo reaffirmed their safety priorities stating "As always, safety and security of our customers, crew and aircraft are our topmost priorities".
Resolution and Flight Resumption
After extensive security checks that lasted several hours, authorities reached a conclusive finding. The bomb threat turned out to be a complete hoax with no actual danger present.
Once security clearance was obtained, the aircraft prepared for its onward journey. The flight eventually departed from Lucknow Airport at 4.30 pm to continue its original route to Bagdogra.
Passengers experienced significant delays but ultimately reached their destination safely. The incident concluded without any injuries or damage to the aircraft.
