New Delhi: An IndiGo Airlines flight carrying 238 people was forced to make an emergency landing at Lucknow airport on Sunday after a bomb threat was reported mid-air.
The aircraft, identified as flight 6E-6650, was travelling from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport to Bagdogra when the threat came to light.
Following the alert, the plane was diverted to Lucknow as a precautionary measure.
“A security threat was noticed onboard IndiGo flight 6E 6650 operating from Delhi to Bagdogra on Sunday due to which the aircraft was diverted to Lucknow,” the airline stated.
“Following the established protocol, we informed the relevant authorities immediately and are fully cooperating with them in carrying out the necessary security checks,” IndiGo spokesperson added.
The airline stated that they are making all efforts to minimise inconvenience to our customers including offering them refreshments and sharing regular updates.
“As always, safety and security of our customers, crew and aircraft are our topmost priorities,” IndiGo spokesperson added.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Rajneesh Verma, the bomb threat was detected after a handwritten note was found on a tissue paper inside the aircraft’s toilet.
Soon after the flight landed safely at Lucknow airport at around 9:17 am, it was moved to an isolation bay for security checks.
All passengers were immediately evacuated from the aircraft and scanned to ensure their safety.
The Air Traffic Control (ATC) received information about the bomb threat at around 8:46 am on January 18, after which standard safety protocols were activated.
Security agencies, including the bomb disposal squad and CISF teams, began a thorough search of the aircraft and the surrounding area.
A comprehensive investigation is currently underway to rule out any potential danger.
The flight was carrying 230 passengers, including 222 adults and eight infants, along with two pilots and five crew members. Officials said all passengers and crew members are safe.
(IANS)
