Lucknow: An IndiGo Airlines flight from Delhi to Bagdogra was diverted to Lucknow Airport on Sunday morning after a bomb threat was reported mid-air.According to officials, Air Traffic Control (ATC) received the alert at 8.46 am regarding flight number 6E-6650.
The aircraft made an emergency landing at Lucknow Airport at 9.17 am and was immediately moved to an isolation bay.A preliminary investigation revealed a handwritten note on a tissue paper inside the rear lavatory of the aircraft, which read: “Bomb on the plane”. Authorities also confirmed that the aircraft was carrying radioactive material in packed condition (cancer medicine with NOC) in its luggage compartment.In view of the seriousness of the situation, the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) was constituted for further evaluation. Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) cordoned off the aircraft, and bomb disposal squads along with security agencies conducted thorough checks.However, it turned out to be a hoax and the flight left for Bagdogra at 4.30 pm.The flight had 222 passengers, eight infants, two pilots, and five crew members on board. All passengers and crew were safely evacuated.“Following the established protocol, we informed the relevant authorities immediately and are fully cooperating with them in carrying out the necessary security checks. We are making all efforts to minimise inconvenience to our customers, including offering them refreshments and sharing regular updates. As always, safety and security of our customers, crew and aircraft are our topmost priorities,” read an earlier statement by IndiGo.
