Within just 24 hours, approximately 80 flights faced bomb threats, severely disrupting airline operations and causing major delays for passengers. Although these threats were ultimately determined to be false, the resulting disruption has led to an estimated Rs 600 crore loss for airlines, as reported by former airline officials.
Rising Costs of Threat-Induced Disruptions
Over a nine-day period, more than 170 flights received bomb threats, with several international flights even being diverted. On average, a domestic flight disruption costs around Rs 1.5 crore, while the expense rises to Rs 5-5.5 crore for international flights, according to a former airline finance official. Based on this estimate, the overall loss due to these 170 flight disruptions totals around Rs 600 crore. Costs vary based on aircraft size and route duration, with wide-body planes incurring higher operational costs.
Strengthening Security Measures and Legal Actions
Authorities have enhanced the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) protocols to counter the wave of internet-based threats effectively. The government is also proposing legislative amendments to The Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act (SUASCA), 1982. These changes would allow authorities to arrest and investigate perpetrators of bomb threats without a court order, even when the aircraft is grounded. Additionally, stringent punishments, including placing offenders on the no-fly list, are under consideration.
Future Steps to Combat Hoaxes
As bomb hoax calls continue to destabilize the airline industry, these planned reforms signal the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and smooth operation of air travel in India. With stricter laws and potential penalties on the horizon, authorities aim to create a deterrent against such disruptive activities, protecting both passengers and the airline industry from further financial and operational harm.
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