Lucknow | An IndiGo Airlines passenger flight operating from Delhi to Bagdogra in West Bengal was forced to make an emergency landing at Lucknow airport on Sunday morning following a bomb threat, prompting a full-scale security response. Authorities confirmed that all passengers and crew members were evacuated safely and that no injuries were reported.
According to airport and security sources, air traffic control received information about a potential threat while the aircraft was en route. As a precautionary measure and in line with established aviation security protocols, the flight was diverted to Lucknow, where it landed safely under heightened alert.
Immediately after touchdown, the aircraft was moved to a designated isolation bay, away from the main terminal and runway operations, to allow security agencies to conduct thorough checks.
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Suspicious note heightens alert
During preliminary inspection of the aircraft, security personnel recovered a handwritten note on a tissue paper containing a message indicating the presence of a bomb on board. The discovery prompted an escalation of security measures and a detailed search of the aircraft.
Bomb disposal squads, local police units and central security agencies jointly carried out an extensive inspection. The search covered the passenger cabin, cockpit, cargo hold and all baggage compartments to rule out the presence of any explosive material or suspicious objects.
Airport officials said the search operation was conducted methodically to ensure passenger safety while minimising disruption to airport operations.
222 passengers evacuated in a controlled operation
The flight was carrying 222 passengers, including infants and children, along with pilots and cabin crew. All occupants were evacuated in a phased and orderly manner immediately after landing and escorted to a secure holding area.
Authorities said airline staff and security personnel worked in close coordination to keep passengers calm and prevent panic. Medical teams were kept on standby, though no passenger or crew member required medical assistance.
Officials added that passenger welfare and safety remained the top priority throughout the operation.
Standard aviation security protocols followed
Airport authorities emphasised that all standard procedures prescribed for bomb threats were strictly followed. The aircraft was kept isolated until the completion of security checks, ensuring that other flights and terminal operations were not adversely affected.
Preliminary findings indicated that no explosive or hazardous material was detected during the initial sweep. However, officials said a final assessment would only be made after the completion of all checks and submission of security reports.
Normal airport operations continued alongside the investigation, with minimal disruption to other flights.
Airline assures cooperation
In a brief statement, IndiGo said the safety and security of passengers and crew remained its highest priority. The airline confirmed that it had fully complied with established security procedures and was cooperating with all relevant agencies conducting the investigation.
The airline also expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers and said arrangements were being made to assist them with onward travel and other requirements, subject to security clearance.
Investigation focuses on source of threat
Security agencies have launched an investigation to determine how the threat originated and how the handwritten note came to be placed on board the aircraft. Officials said forensic analysis of the note, along with a review of CCTV footage from boarding points and airport premises, would be undertaken.
Authorities are also examining passenger and baggage screening processes to identify any possible breach or act of mischief. Officials indicated that the incident was being treated seriously, irrespective of whether the threat ultimately proves to be a hoax.
Heightened vigilance amid rising hoax threats
Aviation officials noted that in recent months there has been an increase in false bomb threats targeting flights, leading to heightened vigilance across airports. Every such alert is treated as credible until proven otherwise, given the potential risks involved.
Experts said while these incidents underscore the robustness of aviation safety mechanisms, they also highlight the need for strict legal action against those responsible for issuing false threats, which divert security resources and cause public inconvenience.
Situation under control
Authorities confirmed that the situation at Lucknow airport was fully under control and that airport operations were functioning normally. A final report is expected after the completion of all security and forensic checks.
Officials reiterated that passenger safety remains paramount and that no compromise is made when potential threats to aviation security are reported.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
