A handwritten bomb threat on a tissue paper was found in a lavatory of a Lucknow-Delhi IndiGo flight just before take-off on Friday, prompting the de-boarding of nearly 180 passengers on board and a search operation.
Teams from the Central Industrial Security Force, bomb disposal squad, and airport security unit carried out checks for hours, disrupting flight operations, even as no material indicating a genuine threat was found.
Preliminary probe suggested the message may have been a hoax intended to create panic and disrupt airport operations. Investigators were scanning CCTV footage to identify the source of the threat.
Officials said every threat is handled as real until proven otherwise, making evacuation and searches mandatory under aviation safety protocols.
In a statement, IndiGo said relevant authorities were informed immediately following the established protocol as the security threat was noticed shortly before take-off. It added that the flight will take off after receiving mandatory security clearances. “We regret the inconvenience caused to our customers and are making all efforts to minimise it, including offering refreshments and timely updates. As always, the safety and security of our customers, crew, and aircraft are our topmost priorities.”