On January 27, 2025, Air India flight AI2957, carrying 126 passengers, activated emergency protocols after transmitting a hijack signal to Delhi Air Traffic Control (ATC) shortly after takeoff. The flight, operated by an ex-Vistara Airbus A320neo (VT-TQM), was destined for Mumbai and created a significant security scare before authorities confirmed the alarm to be a false signal.
Air India Flight AI2957 Activates Hijack Alert
Shortly after its 8:40 PM departure from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, flight AI2957 transmitted a “squawk 7500” hijack code. The emergency code, which signifies unlawful interference or potential hijacking, triggered immediate security responses.
The Delhi ATC initiated emergency protocols, notifying various agencies such as the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Indian Air Force. The destination airport in Mumbai was also alerted to prepare for a potential emergency landing.
Despite the pilot notifying ATC that the hijack alert was a false alarm, authorities maintained full vigilance throughout the flight to ensure no hidden threats.
Security Response and Emergency Protocols
Security Measures at Mumbai Airport
- 9:30 PM: Mumbai airport activated full emergency procedures.
- Aerodrome Committee: Local police and National Security Guard (NSG) personnel were deployed to secure the area.
- 9:47 PM: The aircraft landed safely in Mumbai and was directed to an isolation bay for further inspections.
Passengers were detained aboard the aircraft for an hour while comprehensive security checks were conducted. Authorities verified that there were no threats on board, and passengers were eventually allowed to disembark.
Understanding Squawk Codes and Aviation Emergencies
Air traffic control systems use transponder codes, or squawk codes, to track aircraft and identify emergencies.
- 7600: Indicates radio communication failure.
- 7700: Signals general emergencies like engine failure or medical issues.
- 7500: Denotes unlawful interference or a possible hijacking.
The hijack code triggered by flight AI2957 remained active for three minutes after takeoff, prompting strict safety protocols until the situation was verified as normal.
Investigation into the False Alarm
Authorities, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), BCAS, and CISF, have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the false hijack signal. Preliminary findings suggest that technical error may be responsible, though the investigation will examine all possibilities, including pilot actions and ATC communications.
A ministry official clarified that emergency protocols remain active even if the pilot confirms the alarm is false. This is to ensure passenger and aircraft safety, as aviation authorities cannot immediately confirm whether the pilot is under duress.
India’s Response to Hoax Threats
The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in India’s aviation sector. In 2024 alone, the Ministry of Civil Aviation reported 999 hoax bomb threats, with 666 threats occurring in October. In response, the government has introduced stricter penalties under the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023:
- Section 30A: Penalizes false alarms that create panic or disrupt aviation operations.
- Fines: Individuals face fines of ₹1 lakh, while companies can be fined between ₹50 lakh and ₹1 crore, depending on their size.
The ministry has also proposed amending the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act (SUASCA) 1982 to reclassify severe violations as cognizable offenses, which could lead to stricter legal consequences.
The false hijack signal on Air India flight AI2957 underscores the importance of strict aviation security protocols and immediate responses to potential threats. While the incident ended safely, it highlights the challenges posed by false alarms and the need for ongoing improvements in aviation safety technology and procedures. The government’s introduction of new fines and potential legal reforms demonstrates its commitment to reducing hoax threats and enhancing passenger security across the country.
