Lipstick Message in Aircraft Washroom Triggers Full Security Protocol at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport; Another IndiGo Flight to Shillong Faces Similar Scare
New Delhi: An IndiGo flight operating from Dibrugarh Airport to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport made an emergency landing on Saturday evening after a bomb threat message was discovered inside the aircraft’s washroom, officials confirmed.
The flight, identified as IndiGo 6E6894, an Airbus A-320 aircraft, landed safely at 7:37 pm in Kolkata. Airport authorities immediately activated standard security protocols, shifting the aircraft to the isolation bay for thorough inspection. All passengers were safely deboarded without any injuries or untoward incident.
Bomb Threat Written with Lipstick Sparks Mid-Air Alert
According to airport sources, the threat message was allegedly written with lipstick inside the lavatory of the aircraft. Upon being alerted, the flight crew informed Air Traffic Control, following which the aircraft was accorded priority landing clearance.
Security agencies, including the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, initiated detailed checks of the aircraft. Officials stated that passenger safety remained the top priority, and no suspicious object had been confirmed at the time of reporting.
Second Bomb Scare in a Day Involving IndiGo Aircraft
In a separate but related incident earlier in the day, another IndiGo flight, 6E3074, scheduled to depart from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport to Shillong, was subjected to a bomb scare during passenger boarding.
A handwritten note claiming the presence of a bomb was found inside the aircraft’s toilet compartment, prompting immediate evacuation of passengers. The aircraft was also moved to the isolation bay for comprehensive security screening.
“Bomb scare in Kolkata to Shillong IndiGo 6E3074, which was scheduled to depart at 9:15 AM from Kolkata Airport. The aircraft has been moved to the isolation bay. During boarding, crew members found a piece of paper inside the aircraft's toilet compartment stating there was a bomb on board. Immediately afterwards, passengers were removed from the aircraft. The checking process is ongoing,” the Airport Director said.
Authorities have launched investigations into both incidents to determine whether the threats were hoaxes or part of a coordinated attempt to disrupt operations.
Aviation security agencies are reviewing CCTV footage and passenger manifests as part of standard procedure. Further updates are awaited as security checks continue.
