Sign in

Passenger offloaded from Bengaluru–Delhi Air India flight amid heightened airport security

A passenger was deboarded from an Air India flight at Bengaluru airport due to heightened security concerns linked to Operation Sindhoor. 

Published on: May 8, 2025, 09:50:44 IST
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
Copy link
  • copy link

A passenger was deboarded from an Air India flight at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru on Wednesday evening, amid increased security protocols implemented nationwide in response to India’s recent military action under ‘Operation Sindhoor’.

A passenger was deplaned from Bengaluru-Delhi Air India flight on Wednesday. (Reuters)
A passenger was deplaned from Bengaluru-Delhi Air India flight on Wednesday. (Reuters)

Also Read - Bengaluru airport issues advisory as flight cancellations hit amid Operation Sindhoor airspace curbs

According to a PTI report, the individual was offloaded from flight AI-2820, which was scheduled to depart for New Delhi at 6:05 pm. The reason for the deboarding was linked to security concerns, although authorities have not disclosed specific details about the passenger’s identity or the nature of the threat.

“We are aware of the incident but will not share any details,” an Air India official told PTI. The official added that such actions are never routine and are only taken when there is a “specific concern,” declining further comment due to the sensitivity of the matter.

The development comes as airports across India remain on high alert following the Indian Air Force’s precision strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These airstrikes, codenamed ‘Operation Sindhoor’, were launched in retaliation to the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians, including Bengaluru-based techie Bharat Bhushan.

Also Read - Newly appointed BBMP chief launches drive to fix Bengaluru footpaths, prioritise pedestrian safety

Bengaluru airport issues general advisory to passengers

In light of the escalating military tensions and dynamic airspace restrictions, Kempegowda International Airport has issued a passenger advisory warning of potential delays and cancellations, particularly on May 7. The advisory urges travelers to check flight statuses in advance and prepare for disruptions, as multiple airports in northern India have been temporarily closed or placed under restricted operations.

The cascading effect of diverted and grounded flights is being felt at major hubs like Bengaluru, where flight schedules have been significantly impacted due to ongoing security measures and real-time airspace management.

  • HT News Desk
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    HT News Desk

    Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Get the latest City News, local updates, weather alerts and breaking stories from Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and other major cities across India on Hindustan Times.