The threat prompted swift action from airport security, although no explosives were found. Authorities have confirmed that the situation is under control, but security has been enhanced as a precaution.
Flight Disruptions Across India Continue
Meanwhile, air travel disruptions plagued several parts of the country due to a combination of technical issues, volcanic activity, and operational constraints.
On Thursday morning, an IndiGo flight (6E 2006) from Delhi to Leh was forced to return shortly after takeoff due to technical difficulties. The flight, carrying 180 passengers including crew, landed safely back in Delhi. The airline has not yet disclosed the exact nature of the issue.
In a similar case, a SpiceJet flight from Hyderabad to Tirupati had to turn back within 10 minutes of takeoff. The aircraft was carrying 80 passengers. No injuries or safety concerns were reported.
International Flights Affected by Volcanic Eruption in Indonesia
Air India also reported significant operational disruptions this week. On Wednesday, three major international flights were cancelled:
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Delhi–Bali (AI2145): Returned mid-air after a volcanic eruption near Bali airport.
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Toronto–Delhi (AI188): Cancelled post-boarding due to aircraft maintenance and crew duty limitations.
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Dubai–Delhi (AI996): Cancelled after boarding because of a technical fault.
Passengers were safely disembarked, with Air India offering hotel accommodation and full refunds.
The eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia on Tuesday sent ash clouds soaring 11 km high, followed by another 1 km plume on Wednesday, disrupting numerous international routes, including those to and from Bali.
Bomb Threat at Hyderabad’s Begumpet Airport
Adding to aviation concerns, a bomb threat was also reported at Hyderabad’s Begumpet Airport on Thursday. According to local police, a bomb squad was dispatched, and the premises were thoroughly checked. No explosives were discovered, and operations resumed after ensuring the safety of all individuals on site.
Air India Faces Operational Scrutiny
Air India has faced a turbulent few days. On June 18, the airline cancelled seven international flights, including key routes like:
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Ahmedabad–London
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Delhi–Paris
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Delhi–Vienna
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London–Amritsar
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Delhi–Dubai
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Bengaluru–London
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San Francisco–Mumbai
Between June 12 and 17, a total of 66 Air India flights were cancelled—many of them involving Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, as per data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Following an inspection triggered by an incident on June 12, DGCA confirmed that no significant safety violations were found, and aircraft maintenance complied with existing regulations. However, a high-level meeting was held with airline officials, and DGCA has instructed Air India to bolster operational discipline, improve safety checks, and ensure punctual departures.