Air India Flight to New York Returns to Mumbai After Security Threat, Rescheduled for March 11

Mumbai- One of Air India flights to New York was compelled to return to Mumbai on Monday morning following a security threat found on the plane. Flight AI119 was on its way to John F. Kennedy International Airport when a threatening note stating there would be an explosion was found in the washroom of the aircraft, forcing the authorities to act with haste.

The plane, which departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport around 3:00 AM IST, was flying over Azerbaijan when the crew noticed the report of the threatening letter. In keeping with standard security procedures, it was decided to reroute the flight back to Mumbai, and it landed safely at 10:25 AM. Passengers, who were unaware of what was happening at first, were notified of the threat upon landing.

When the plane landed, it was received by aviation authorities and security personnel. An investigation was conducted by the Mumbai police. One of the senior officers of Mumbai’s Zone 8 affirmed that the threat is just like the past incidents in which such threatening notes are recovered from the toilet of aircraft. He asserted that the matter is being dealt with as per usual procedures, involving a thorough scan of the aircraft and a detailed investigation.

Air India quickly assured travelers that their safety remained the foremost priority. In a statement, the airline indicated, “All the passengers have been accommodated in hotels and are being fed. The flight has been rescheduled for March 11, and we are working closely with the authorities to help the investigation take place.” The airline further indicated that the passengers would be informed of any new developments in terms of the flight’s rescheduled departure.

The incident has created concern regarding air travel security, especially threats made through anonymous notes. Although such threats are not new, the security procedures adopted by Air India and the prompt response of security agencies ensured that the situation was resolved without any mishap. The authorities are still investigating, but no additional information has been given so far.

Air India assured all the passengers that all possible precautions are being taken so that the safety of everyone on board is guaranteed, and the airline continues to adhere to all safety and security procedures required of it following this security threat.