A SpiceJet flight bound for Kolkata faced a significant delay of over five hours today following the reception of a threat message indicating the presence of explosives in passengers' luggage.
The flight, SG-8263, originally slated for departure at approximately 5:40 am, was only permitted to take off after 11:30 am once security agencies completed an exhaustive anti-sabotage check and re-screening of both check-in and cabin baggage, involving passengers and crew alike.
The incident unfolded when the duty manager at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport received an email around 5:20 am, alerting them to a "safety issue" concerning the aforementioned flight.
Allegations were made regarding the transportation of explosive materials within passengers' belongings, prompting swift action from airport authorities.
Upon receiving the alarming communication, a bomb threat assessment committee, comprising various security agencies and airport officials, was promptly convened.
As a precautionary measure, the aircraft was relocated to an isolation bay at the airport premises.
Following a thorough re-inspection and scanning of all luggage, the security apparatus deemed the message to be a hoax, ultimately permitting the flight's departure.
However, attention was drawn to a woman passenger accompanied by an infant in the terminal area.
Subsequently, security agencies detained them for questioning, suspecting potential involvement in the transmission of the threatening email.
