On March 10, 2025, an Air India flight from Mumbai to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport had to turn back to Mumbai due to a bomb threat discovered during the flight. The Air India Flight AI119, which was carrying 322 passengers had been airborne for about five hours when a suspicious note was found in one of the aircraft’s bathrooms. At that time, the flight was over Azerbaijan, and it quickly returned, landing in Mumbai after more than eight hours in the air. Once on the ground, security forces conducted a thorough inspection of the aircraft, ultimately determining that the bomb threat was false.
This incident has sparked significant questions regarding airline security protocols and the effectiveness of current measures to address such threats. In India, aviation security is managed by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, which operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The BCAS is tasked with establishing security standards for airport operators, airlines, and security agencies. Any security threat, including bomb threats, activates a specific set of protocols outlined in the Aircraft Security Rules of 2011 and the Aviation Security (AVSEC) Programme.
When a bomb threat is reported during a flight, the pilot in command must immediately inform air traffic control as per the established ‘Bomb Threat Contingency Plan.’ In this instance, ATC instructed the aircraft to return to Mumbai instead of continuing into international airspace. After landing, passengers were quickly evacuated, and security teams, including the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and bomb disposal units, performed a comprehensive search of the aircraft.
Although the threat was ultimately deemed a false alarm, authorities are now looking into the source of the note. Under aviation security regulations, making false bomb threats is a criminal offense under Section 505 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which addresses statements that lead to public mischief, and Section 336, which pertains to actions that endanger the life or safety of others. Furthermore, the Anti-Hijacking Act of 2016 imposes severe penalties if a threat is seen as compromising the safety of passengers and crew.
False bomb threats create not only panic and fear but also lead to serious operational and financial consequences. The unexpected return of Flight AI119 required rescheduling connecting flights, compensating passengers for delays, and carrying out thorough security checks — all of which incurred significant costs for the airline. Additionally, such events place a heavy psychological burden on both passengers and crew, who must deal with the stress of a situation that feels life-threatening.
This incident also brings to light the larger issue of aviation security in India. Although the country has made notable progress in enhancing airport and in-flight security, the AI119 case reveals possible weaknesses. For example, experts have emphasized the necessity for improved passenger screening, more thorough aircraft inspections prior to takeoff, and better training for crew members to manage security emergencies.
In recent years, India has made significant improvements to its aviation security by implementing biometric screening systems at major airports, utilizing advanced baggage scanning technology, and enhancing collaboration between intelligence agencies and airport authorities. However, the AI119 bomb threat highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and the regular updating of security measures to address emerging threats.
Passengers also play an essential role in ensuring flight safety. Airlines frequently encourage travelers to report any suspicious behavior or unattended luggage without delay. In this instance, the note’s discovery by either a passenger or crew member was vital in prompting the pilot’s quick action, illustrating how collective awareness can help prevent potential disasters.
Ultimately, while the AI119 bomb threat turned out to be a hoax, it serves as a powerful reminder of the constant risks in modern aviation. It has prompted Indian authorities to reassess and strengthen their security protocols, ensuring that passenger safety remains a top priority. As investigations proceed, the emphasis is not only on identifying the individual behind the false threat but also on preventing similar occurrences in the future.
Written by Ratisha Khare
