Mumbai: “Hijack” alert midair triggers security procedures on Air India flight

On Monday, an emergency signal was sent from flight AI 2957 to Delhi ATC minutes after takeoff from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, signalling a possible hijacking. The flight, operating between New Delhi and Mumbai, was carrying 126 people when it activated emergency systems, forcing authorities to respond.

Central committee formed for investigation

The emergency signal triggered a detailed security response by security forces and the Indian Air Force (IAF). A central committee has been formed consisting of members from the Delhi Police, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) along with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Air Force.

How safety checks were done

The aircraft touched down at 9:47 pm in Mumbai. An emergency plan involving local police together with the National Security Guard (NSG) was put in motion. The aircraft flew to an isolated bay for passengers to stay aboard for one hour as police conducted their investigation.

Overall safety checks were completed successfully without indications of danger therefore passengers were allowed to leave the plane. The false alarm demonstrated the critical necessity of tight controlled security measures that protect passengers and staff.