Fake 'bomb' note sparks panic on board Delhi-Vadodara flight

NEW DELHI: Panic ensued aboard a Delhi-Vadodara Air India flight at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport after a crew member discovered a tissue paper with the word “bomb” written on it in the aircraft's washroom, according to police reports on Thursday.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday evening when the crew member spotted the alarming note just as the aircraft was preparing for takeoff at 7 pm. Swift action was taken as the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Delhi Police were immediately alerted, leading to the evacuation of passengers from the flight.

Authorities conducted a thorough search of the aircraft but found nothing suspicious. Passengers were subsequently accommodated at a nearby hotel while the situation was addressed.

In response to the incident, Air India released a statement confirming the detection of a specific security alert on Flight AI819 bound for Vadodara before departure. The airline assured that all passengers were safely deboarded, and the aircraft was subjected to mandatory security checks in cooperation with relevant agencies.

Expressing commitment to passenger safety, Air India emphasised its adherence to stringent security protocols and apologized for any inconvenience caused. The affected passengers were later transported to Vadodara via a special flight on Thursday morning.