Ahmedabad: An Air India Express flight from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, to New Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing in Ahmedabad on August 31 due to a bomb hoax. The first officer of the flight has now been identified as a suspect in this incident. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the hoax and the officer’s involvement.
Sources in city police said they examined handwriting samples from passengers and crew members, including the first officer. The handwriting on the threat note — bearing the words “RED: BOMB” — was a 65% match with hers. “Handwriting samples from both cases match,” a senior police officer said. “There were variations in her statements when we questioned her,” a source in the city police said of the recent case. “What’s missing is the intention behind the act, including the possibility of some mischief,” said a home department official. “We are aware that law enforcement agencies are investigating a security-related incident involving our flight operating from Dammam to Delhi on 31 Aug 2026, pursuant to a complaint filed by us,” said an Air India Express spokesperson. “The airline is fully cooperating with the relevant agencies in the investigation.”
Investigators noted that she was a crew member of another flight that was subjected to a bomb hoax. “Moreover, the ink used in the chit belonged to her. The investigation, initially conducted by city police, has now been handed over to National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Investigation Underway Following Safety Incident
A spokesperson has confirmed that an investigation is currently underway regarding a recent safety incident affecting guests and crew. They stated, “We unequivocally condemn any conduct that compromises…the safety and security of our guests, crew, and operations.” The spokesperson assured that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of this investigation.