An Air India flight en route to New York from Mumbai was forced to return to Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport after a bomb threat was reported onboard. The flight, AI-185, was in the air when a security scare led to immediate action from the authorities. The crew received an anonymous bomb threat, prompting them to request a return to Mumbai as a precautionary measure.

The aircraft, a Boeing 777-300ER, departed Mumbai early in the morning with 250 passengers and crew members on board. Approximately three hours into the flight, the pilot received a security alert that there was a bomb threat in the cargo hold. The decision was made to return to Mumbai to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Emergency protocols were followed, and the plane landed safely at Mumbai International Airport.

Upon arrival, the passengers were evacuated, and security teams began a thorough investigation. The airport was placed under heightened security, and all arriving and departing flights were subject to delays. The investigation involved bomb detection teams, sniffer dogs, and a detailed inspection of the aircraft. Fortunately, the threat was later determined to be a hoax, and no explosives were found.

Air India expressed their gratitude to the crew and authorities for handling the situation professionally and efficiently. The airline assured passengers that they would be reimbursed for their travel inconvenience, and alternative flights to New York were arranged for those affected.

This incident comes amid heightened security measures globally in response to increasing threats in the aviation sector. It is yet another reminder of the ongoing risks and the importance of maintaining strict security checks and emergency protocols to safeguard air travel.