Flight Rerouted Amid Security Threat
An American Airlines flight en route from New York to New Delhi was unexpectedly diverted to Rome due to a potential security concern, the airline confirmed on Sunday. Flight 292, which departed from John F. Kennedy International Airport, was scheduled to land at Indira Gandhi International Airport in India but had to make an unplanned stop in Italy. The incident prompted a swift response from aviation authorities, with Italian Air Force fighter jets escorting the aircraft to Leonardo da Vinci Rome Fiumicino Airport, where it landed without any complications. The airline emphasized that ensuring passenger safety remains its highest priority and expressed appreciation for the travelers’ patience during the incident.
Investigation and Passenger Safety Measures
Authorities later disclosed that the diversion was triggered by a bomb threat received via email. A senior official briefed on the situation informed ABC News that while the threat was later deemed baseless, Indian authorities insisted on a thorough inspection of the aircraft before allowing it to proceed to New Delhi. Upon landing in Rome, all 199 passengers and 15 crew members were evacuated from the plane and transported to the terminal for security screening. Meanwhile, aviation security teams commenced a detailed inspection of the aircraft to rule out any potential threats.
Airline Response and Security Protocols
American Airlines flight reiterated its commitment to passenger and crew safety, stating that all necessary security protocols were followed to address the situation effectively. The airline worked closely with local and international aviation authorities to manage the disruption and ensure a smooth resolution. Passengers were provided with necessary assistance during the delay, while authorities continued their examination of the aircraft. As global air travel faces increasing security challenges, this incident underscores the importance of rapid response mechanisms and international cooperation in safeguarding passengers against potential threats.
