Bomb threat on IndiGo flight; search operation underway

KOLKATA: A bomb threat led to a major security scare at Kolkata airport on Tuesday afternoon, forcing authorities to evacuate an IndiGo flight moments before takeoff. A search operation is currently underway on the aircraft following suspicions that a passenger might be in possession of a bomb.

"We received a call after the passengers checked in. The flight was scheduled to depart at 1:30 PM and arrive in Mumbai at 4:20 PM. Following emergency protocol, all 195 passengers were asked to deboard, and the aircraft was moved for inspection," said authorities.

Reports also indicate that one suspicious passenger has been taken into custody. The passenger had arrived in Kolkata on an IndiGo flight from Imphal and was scheduled to board another IndiGo flight to Mumbai. The flight was supposed to depart around 1.30 PM. Out of 186 passengers, 179 had already boarded the aircraft.

"A threat call was received before the departure of flight 6E 5227 from Kolkata to Mumbai. As per security protocols, the aircraft was moved for inspection. Luggage has been offloaded. Bomb squad officials are on board and are conducting checks. Security has been tightened throughout the airport," officials said.

A similar bomb threat was received on May 6 regarding an IndiGo flight arriving from Chandigarh to Mumbai, which was later confirmed to be a hoax.