Mid-Air Drama: IndiGo Mumbai-Phuket Flight Diverted Amidst Bomb Threat Scare, Later Declared Hoax

A morning flight from Mumbai to the popular tourist destination of Phuket took an unexpected and alarming turn when it was suddenly diverted to Chennai following a mid-air security threat. IndiGo flight 6E 1761, carrying numerous passengers, landed safely at Chennai International Airport early on Tuesday, January 2nd, after an urgent bomb threat was received by air traffic control.

The scare unfolded when Chennai ATC received a chilling email indicating a security threat concerning the Mumbai-Phuket bound aircraft.

Swift and decisive action was taken, with authorities immediately initiating emergency protocols. The pilot was instructed to divert the flight to Chennai, where it could be thoroughly inspected and the threat assessed.

Upon its safe landing in Chennai at approximately 5:45 AM, the aircraft was promptly moved to an isolated bay, away from the main terminal.

This critical step ensured the safety of other airport operations and allowed for an unhindered security response. Passengers and crew were safely deplaned, with ground staff and security personnel guiding them through the necessary procedures.

What followed was an intensive and high-stakes investigation.

Elite National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, alongside a dedicated Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) and a highly trained dog squad, meticulously combed through every inch of the aircraft. Their mission: to locate any potential explosive devices and neutralize the threat.

After hours of painstaking searching and thorough checks, a collective sigh of relief swept through the airport.

Authorities officially declared the bomb threat a hoax. No suspicious items or devices were found onboard the IndiGo flight, confirming that the alert was a malicious, yet ultimately unfounded, scare.

IndiGo Airlines confirmed the incident, stating, “IndiGo flight 6E 1761, operating from Mumbai to Phuket, received a bomb threat.

All necessary protocols were followed, and the aircraft was diverted to Chennai. Upon arrival, all passengers were safely deplaned.” The airline reassured that the safety and security of its passengers, crew, and aircraft remain its top priority.

This incident, while thankfully ending without harm, highlights the constant vigilance required in aviation security.

It also serves as a stark reminder that such hoax threats, though proven false, cause significant disruption, anxiety for passengers, and considerable operational challenges for airlines and security agencies. Efforts are ongoing to trace the origin of the malicious email, with strict action expected against those responsible for creating such widespread alarm.