Bomb threats impact Indian air travellers, with 29% considering changes to travel plans, BA

Picture used for representation.

Amid an unprecedented wave of bomb threats directed at Indian airlines, travelers’ confidence in flight safety has been shaken, according to recent survey data from LocalCircles. The survey reveals that 29 per cent of Indian air travellers are likely to reconsider or alter their upcoming travel plans within the next month if these threats persist. Over the last two weeks alone, more than 400 such threats have targeted both domestic and international flights operated by Indian airlines, significantly disrupting flight schedules, necessitating emergency landings, and triggering heightened security checks.

The recent threats—60 received in a single day on October 28—have escalated concerns within the aviation industry and prompted a response from India’s top government officials. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue in a cabinet meeting, underscoring the need for a “whole of government” approach to combat this menace. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Information Technology (MeitY) has directed social media platforms to intensify efforts in removing hoax threat content and comply with reporting obligations under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS). These measures aim to curb misinformation and hold individuals accountable for content that could endanger public safety or national security.

Legislative Action to Deter Bomb Threat Pranksters
In response to the rash of bomb threats, the government is weighing legislative action to deter further incidents. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu recently announced potential amendments to the Aircraft Security Rules and the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation (SUASCA) Act, 1982. These changes would introduce stricter penalties, including travel bans, for individuals found guilty of making or sharing hoax threats. The government hopes these measures will prevent further disruptions to travel and safeguard the aviation sector.

Travellers Growing Cautious Amid Rising Bomb Threats
LocalCircles conducted a survey to assess how recent events are influencing travellers’ plans. With over 15,000 respondents from 297 districts across India, the survey revealed that a significant percentage of Indian travelers are now rethinking their flights. While 25 per cent of respondents indicated they would continue their travel plans without extra caution, 46 per cent stated they would travel as planned but remain vigilant. However, 9 per cent of travellers surveyed said they might alter their travel plans, and 8 per cent confirmed they would definitely change them, attributing their decision to safety concerns amid the ongoing bomb threats. In total, 29 per cent of respondents are now likely to adjust their plans to avoid potential disruptions.

Survey Insights Reflect Wider Concerns
The LocalCircles survey, which garnered responses from a diverse demographic, including 61 per cent men and 39 per cent women, paints a picture of widespread apprehension. Participants represented a broad spectrum of India’s population, with 45 per cent residing in tier 1 cities, 29 per cent in tier 2, and 26 per cent from smaller towns and rural areas. Conducted on the LocalCircles platform, the survey drew responses exclusively from verified citizens, offering a grounded perspective on the prevailing sentiment among air travellers.

Future Flight Safety and Security for Passengers
The surge in bomb threats has raised significant challenges for airlines, which are now operating under heightened security protocols to ensure passenger safety. Airlines are enforcing rigorous post-landing checks, sometimes delaying disembarkation, and are implementing additional security screenings to address passenger concerns. Many flights have experienced delays or cancellations, and passengers who proceed with their travel face extended security clearances, adding further inconvenience to their journey.

As the government ramps up its response, both airlines and authorities are hopeful that stricter legal measures and stronger preventive strategies will help restore confidence among travellers. While the recent threats have disrupted the plans of thousands of passengers, the proactive measures underway are intended to mitigate future risks and provide a safer travel experience for all.