False Hijack Alert On Air India Flight AI 2957 To Mumbai, Triggers Full Security Protocol

On Monday evening, an alarming mid-air hijack alert was sent by Air India's Mumbai-bound flight AI 2957 shortly after its takeoff from New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. The alert triggered a full-scale security response, despite later being identified as a false alarm, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

False Hijack Alert Triggers Full Security Protocol On Air India

Emergency Protocol Activated

At 8:40 pm, the flight, which was carrying 126 passengers, transmitted a "squawk 7500" code to Air Traffic Control (ATC) in Delhi, signaling a potential hijack. This four-digit transponder code, recognized internationally for unlawful interference, prompted immediate action from airport authorities.

Delhi's ATC swiftly implemented a security protocol that included notifying Mumbai airport, the Indian Air Force, and relevant security agencies. The aircraft was diverted to an isolation bay upon arrival at Mumbai airport, and the emergency response plan was executed, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Airline's Swift Response

Despite the pilot confirming to ATC that the situation was under control, the security response continued without hesitation. The protocol mandates that authorities prepare for the worst in such situations, as the pilot's communication could potentially be under duress. A full emergency was declared at Mumbai Airport, with the deployment of local police and the National Security Guard (NSG) on standby.

Investigation Into the False Alarm

Although the pilot clarified the flight was operating normally, the aircraft's initial emergency signal raised concerns. Aviation experts speculated the issue might stem from a technical error or misinterpretation of the signal by ATC. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), alongside other agencies like CISF and BCAS, has begun an investigation to determine the root cause of the alarm.

Passenger Safety Maintained

Upon landing at Mumbai at 9:47 pm, the aircraft was secured in the isolation bay, and passengers were only allowed to deboard after a thorough inspection. Officials confirmed there were no injuries or indications of any hijack-related activity. The flight, which had initially sparked widespread concern, was confirmed to have been a regular operation.

Squawk Code Protocol and Aviation Safety

The squawk 7500 code is part of a set of emergency signals used by aircraft to communicate with air traffic control. While codes 7600 and 7700 indicate radio communication failure and general aircraft emergencies respectively, 7500 specifically alerts authorities to a hijack situation. The fact that the aircraft's transponder signaled this code led to heightened concerns despite the later clarification, as reported by Hindustan Times.

As investigations into the incident continue, officials emphasize the importance of maintaining stringent security protocols and prompt response in situations that may appear as hijack threats, no matter the outcome.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the meticulous security measures in place for the safety of passengers, even when initial signs of danger turn out to be false alarms, as per media reports. With ongoing investigations into the source of the false hijack alert, authorities are determined to ensure that such events remain isolated, safeguarding the trust and safety of passengers in air travel.