An Air India Express flight from Dammam to Delhi has come under scanner after a bomb threat written on tissue paper was found inside aircraft’s lavatory that forced the flight to divert to Ahmedabad.
The incident occurred on 31 August and now investigators are examining the possible involvement of crew member and a passenger.
In the initial investigation a handwritten note of bomb threat has found 60-70 percent similarity with the handwriting of one crew member, although the initial investigation has resulted who wrote the threat.
Air India Express Flight Diverted to Ahmedabad
The flight naming IX 170 was carrying 32 passengers and eight crew members, when the threat was discovered during the travel to Delhi. A crew member found that tissue paper in the lavatory and alerted the pilots, who immediately diverted the plane to Ahmedabad.
The aircraft landed around 4.30 PM at Ahmedabad airport around 4.30 PM. All 32 passengers were safely deboarded at Terminal 2, then the security agencies started search of the aircraft. Later no explosive material and suspicious items were found during the initial checks.
Crew Member, Passenger Under Investigation
Then investigators asked the handwriting samples from those on board to identify the person who may have written misleading message. Now according to initial investigation around 60-70 percent similarity of handwriting has found with one of crew member.
While the seven crew members have been allowed to leave Ahmedabad but that one crew member whose handwriting matches the note is still under the investigation. Now police is also questioning a passengers who allegedly visiting aircraft lavatory for many times during the flight. However, the officials have confirmed that the handwritten note itself is not solely proof of crew members’ involvement.
Air India Express Says It Is Cooperating
Air India Express has confirmed that the incident occurred on its Dammam-Delhi flight service on 31 August and said that it had filed a complaint with legal agencies.
“We are aware that the law enforcement agencies are investigating a security-related incident involving our flight operating from Dammam to Delhi on 31 August 2026, pursuant to a complaint filed by us,” it said.
“The airline is fully cooperating with the relevant agencies in the investigation. We unequivocally condemn any conduct that compromises or has the potential to compromise the safety and security of our guests, crew and operations. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation,” the airline added.