False Hijack Scare on Delhi-Mumbai Air India Flight Triggers Full Security Alert
A major security scare unfolded when an Air India flight from Delhi to Mumbai sent out an emergency hijack alert, triggering a high-level response from security agencies. Authorities swiftly enforced stringent protocols, treating the incident as a potential aircraft hijack situation. The alert later turned out to be a false alarm, likely caused by a technical error.
Emergency Hijack Alert Triggers Nationwide Security Response
On Monday night, Air India flight AI 2957 took off from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, en route to Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Shortly after departure, the aircraft’s transponder sent a distress signal, Squawk 7500, which aviation systems recognize as an indication of hijacking.
This immediately set off a security chain reaction, with Air Traffic Control (ATC) notifying multiple agencies, including the Indian Air Force (IAF), Delhi Police, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The IAF was placed on high alert, and a central emergency committee was formed to monitor the situation closely.
Mumbai Airport Declares Full Emergency
Despite the pilot’s reassurance that the flight was operating normally, security forces refused to take any risks, considering the possibility of the crew being under duress. Authorities enforced full emergency protocols at Mumbai airport, with National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, local police, and CISF officers deployed on high alert.
At 9:47 PM, the flight landed in Mumbai, where authorities directed it to an isolation bay for thorough inspection. Security personnel detained passengers for over an hour, ensuring that no security threats existed before allowing them to disembark.
What Went Wrong?
An investigation led by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is currently underway to determine the cause of the false alarm.
- Technical Glitch: Initial reports suggest that the distress signal could have resulted from a malfunction in the aircraft’s transponder system.
- Human Error: Investigators are also examining whether an accidental activation of the emergency code by the crew or an ATC misinterpretation led to the crisis.
- Security Protocols: Despite the pilot’s immediate clarification, authorities followed strict aviation safety measures, emphasizing the seriousness of a Squawk 7500 signal.
Strict Security Protocols Saved the Day
Experts stress that, while the incident turned out to be a false alarm, the swift response from Indian aviation authorities highlights the effectiveness of emergency protocols. A former ATC official stated, “A hijack alert is one of the most serious signals in aviation. Security agencies cannot take any chances.”
This event showcases the robust security framework of Indian aviation and the importance of prompt emergency responses. The aviation ministry and security agencies will now focus on improving technological safeguards to prevent false alarms while maintaining stringent security standards.
Conclusion
The Delhi-Mumbai air hijack scare caused temporary panic but reinforced India’s aviation security preparedness. As authorities analyze the cause of the false alarm, this incident serves as a crucial reminder of the need for vigilance in air travel.
For now, passengers can be assured that India’s aviation safety systems are operating at their best, ensuring secure and efficient travel for all.