A hoax bomb threat targeted an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Pune on Thursday evening, triggering chaos and security protocols just days before Republic Day.
An IndiGo flight carrying over 100 passengers faced an indigo bomb threat upon landing at Pune airport on Thursday, 22 January 2026. The pune airport bomb threat stemmed from a handwritten note found in the aircraft’s lavatory, prompting immediate isolation and checks by authorities. No explosives were located, and the indigo flight hoax was resolved after an hour-long delay.
The incident underscores rising aviation security concerns in India amid national events like Republic Day, which often heighten vigilance across South Asia due to shared borders and regional tensions.
Pune Airport Bomb Threat: Incident Timeline
IndiGo flight 6E 2608 departed Delhi at 7:20 PM on 22 January 2026, delayed from its 6:30 PM schedule. It arrived in Pune at 9:24 PM, later than the planned 8:40 PM landing. Shortly after, crew discovered a note in the lavatory stating “bomb on board”.
Air Traffic Control alerted Apron Control about the indigo bomb threat. The aircraft shifted to an isolation bay at 9:27 PM. The Bomb Threat Assessment Committee convened, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad conducted inspections.
Pune airport director Santosh Dhoke stated: “IndiGo Flight 6E 2608 operating from Delhi to Pune received bomb threat information upon arrival at Pune Airport on 22 January. The aircraft landed at 9:24 PM and parked at Bay No. 3 at 9:27 PM. Air Traffic Control communicated the bomb threat to Apron Control. The aircraft moved to the isolation bay. Apron Control alerted all agencies and the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee met. The aircraft was checked by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad. No suspicious findings emerged. The aircraft cleared for operations. The situation handled coordinately with no further issues.”
The pune airport bomb threat caused temporary chaos. Passengers disembarked safely. No injuries occurred. Operations resumed normally.
Republic Day Bomb Threat: Security Context
The indigo bomb threat coincided with elevated security for Republic Day on 26 January 2026. Airports across India including Pune implemented strict protocols. The Central Industrial Security Force led checks per standard procedures.
IndiGo issued a statement: “Soon after landing a security threat was noticed onboard IndiGo flight 6E 2608 operating from Delhi to Pune on 22 January. Following established protocol we informed authorities immediately and cooperated fully in standard operating procedures.”
Assistant Commissioner of Police Rajneesh Verma confirmed the note on tissue paper in the toilet claimed a bomb onboard.
This republic day bomb threat marks the second indigo flight hoax in five days. An earlier Delhi-Bagdogra flight diverted to Lucknow on 18 January 2026 due to a similar threat later deemed false.
Such incidents strain resources and affect passenger confidence. In South Asia aviation threats often link to broader geopolitical issues. India shares borders with Pakistan and other nations where security alerts influence cross-border travel.
Impact on Passengers and Operations
Over 100 passengers endured the delay. The aircraft held for over an hour. No evacuations needed as checks proceeded methodically.
The indigo flight hoax disrupted schedules but highlighted efficient response. Pune airport handled the pune airport bomb threat without broader shutdowns.
Aviation experts note hoax threats rise during festivals or national days. Republic Day preparations include extra screenings at key hubs like Delhi and Pune.
The indigo bomb threat adds to a pattern. In October 2024 a Pune-Jodhpur IndiGo flight faced multiple hoaxes. Authorities track perpetrators through forensic analysis of notes.
Background
IndiGo India’s largest carrier operates over 2000 daily flights. Recent indigo flight hoax cases include the 18 January incident where flight 6E 6650 diverted safely.
Pune airport serves Maharashtra’s tech and education hub. It handles increasing traffic amid India’s aviation growth. Security upgrades followed past threats.
The republic day bomb threat reflects global trends in aviation disruptions. South Asian countries coordinate on such matters via international bodies.
Investigations often reveal motives like pranks or grudges. Penalties under Indian law include imprisonment.
What’s Next
Police probe the indigo bomb threat source. Forensic teams examine the note for fingerprints or origins. Aviation authorities may review protocols post this pune airport bomb threat. Enhanced surveillance could follow ahead of Republic Day.
IndiGo commits to safety. Future flights may see added checks to prevent similar indigo flight hoax events.
The incident resolved but vigilance persists against potential republic day bomb threat escalations.
Authorities urge reporting suspicious activities. The indigo bomb threat serves as a reminder of security’s role in regional stability.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 23rd, 2026
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