Varanasi, November 12 (Udaipur Kiran): A major security alert was triggered at Varanasi Airport on Wednesday morning after a bomb threat email was received by the Varanasi Air Traffic Control (ATC) regarding an Air India Express flight arriving from Mumbai. The aircraft made an emergency landing at Varanasi, and all passengers were safely evacuated.

According to officials, the threat message was received by ATC via email while the aircraft was en route from Mumbai to Varanasi. The ATC immediately alerted the flight’s pilot, instructing an urgent and safe landing under emergency protocol.

Once the flight entered Varanasi’s airspace, airport authorities declared an emergency at Terminal 1, and the aircraft was directed to an isolation bay. Security forces swiftly moved in and ensured the safe evacuation of all passengers.

A Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) has been deployed to thoroughly inspect the aircraft, luggage, and cargo areas. Multiple security agencies, including the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Special Task Force (STF), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and Local Intelligence Unit (LIU), have reached the airport and are jointly investigating the source of the threat.

The airport terminal and surrounding aviation zone have been temporarily cleared as a precautionary measure while the investigation is underway.

Air India Express Statement

An Air India Express spokesperson confirmed the incident, saying:

“One of our flights to Varanasi received a security-related threat. As per standard protocol, the government-appointed bomb squad was immediately informed, and all necessary security procedures were initiated. The aircraft was safely landed, and all passengers are safe. The flight will resume operations only after all mandatory security checks are completed.”

Authorities have not yet confirmed the origin of the email or the credibility of the threat. However, security forces remain on high alert as the investigation continues.