KKN Gurugram Desk | An IndiGo flight (6E-897) en route from Ahmedabad to Patna sparked panic on Wednesday after a bomb threat was received minutes before its scheduled landing. The incident led to a full-scale emergency response at Patna’s Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, triggering high alert protocols.
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The flight was carrying 195 passengers, whose safety remained uncertain until the aircraft was cleared after thorough inspection.
Timeline of the Incident
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12:45 PM: A WhatsApp message containing a bomb threat was received by IndiGo station manager Shalini in Patna.
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12:53 PM: Within 8 minutes of the alert, the flight was landed safely.
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The aircraft was immediately moved to the isolation bay for security checks.
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1:00 PM to 2:00 PM: A full bomb squad sweep was conducted, causing anxious moments for everyone on board.
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2:00 PM: The aircraft was declared safe; passengers were allowed to disembark.
Bomb Threat Received on WhatsApp
Sources confirm that the threat was delivered via WhatsApp to the mobile phone of the IndiGo station manager. As per standard security protocol:
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The manager immediately informed Air Traffic Control (ATC).
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CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) was alerted and quickly deployed.
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Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) conducted a systematic inspection.
Search Yields No Explosive Material
After more than an hour of intensive inspection using bomb-detection devices, canine units, and visual checks, authorities confirmed:
“No suspicious item or explosive was found on board. It was a hoax threat.”
Only after official clearance was given did passengers breathe a sigh of relief and were allowed to exit the aircraft.
Passenger Experience: A Nerve-Wracking Hour
Passengers, many of whom were unaware initially, reported panic and tension as the aircraft was moved to a remote bay.
One passenger, Anurag Singh, shared with KKNLive:
“We were told to remain seated. We didn’t know if it was a technical issue or something serious. Only later did we learn it was a bomb threat. Everyone was tense.”
Children, elderly passengers, and those with health conditions were provided assistance by airport personnel and crew.
Security Agencies on High Alert
Following the incident:
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CISF strengthened airport perimeter security.
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ATC coordination ensured no other aircraft were affected.
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Police filed an FIR against unidentified individuals behind the threat.
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Cybercrime cell has been tasked with tracing the WhatsApp source.
Official Statement by IndiGo Airlines
“The safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority. IndiGo followed all prescribed protocols in coordination with authorities. We thank the passengers for their patience and cooperation.”
Previous Similar Incidents Highlight Growing Concern
This is not the first time Indian aviation has faced a bomb threat. Just recently:
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A laser light incident disrupted an IndiGo flight from Pune to Patna.
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Earlier this year, hoax threats were made against Vistara and Air India flights, prompting temporary flight diversions.
These cases have triggered concerns over aviation security and digital misuse.
