Hoax Bomb Threat Disrupts Air Arabia Flight at Calicut Airport

A hoax bomb threat at Calicut International Airport grounded an Air Arabia flight to Sharjah, causing significant delays. Police are investigating to identify the responsible passenger.

A false bomb threat on an Air Arabia flight scheduled to depart from Calicut International Airport to Sharjah caused significant disruption on Saturday morning. Airport authorities reported that the flight was grounded for several hours while police conducted a thorough inspection.

The incident began when ground staff discovered a note with the word "bomb" on one of the seats of the aircraft. The note was left by a passenger who had arrived on the flight from Sharjah to Calicut. This discovery was made before boarding for the return flight commenced.

Upon finding the note, airport officials immediately alerted the police. The aircraft was grounded, and a bomb detection squad was called in to perform a detailed inspection. "It was later determined that the note was a hoax bomb threat," an airport official said. "The inspection and security procedures have just concluded, and we are awaiting a report from the bomb detection squad before clearing the flight for takeoff."

Originally scheduled to depart at 8:30 am, the flight is now expected to leave around 5 pm. "Passengers have been accommodated at the airport and provided with food and water," the official added.

Authorities are actively investigating to identify the passenger responsible for the hoax. An officer from Karipur police station said, "The passenger who placed the note has not yet been identified. We are working to find out who was behind this hoax threat and will take further action accordingly."

Hoax bomb threats are a serious concern as they lead to unnecessary panic, operational disruptions, and significant financial costs. They also strain airport security and police resources, diverting them from other critical duties.

The Civil Aviation Authority has strict regulations and severe penalties for those who make bomb threats, even as a prank. Such incidents are punishable under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Aircraft Act. The penalty can include imprisonment and fines, depending on the severity and impact of the threat.

Passengers are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately. Airports and airlines continuously work to enhance security measures to ensure the safety of all passengers.