16-10-2024 (SINGAPORE) A tense situation unfolded at Singapore’s Changi Airport on 15 October as an Air India Express flight from Madurai, India, landed under fighter jet escort following a bomb threat. The incident, which prompted a swift response from Singaporean authorities, concluded without any threatening items being discovered aboard the aircraft.
Flight AXB684, originally scheduled to arrive at 8:50 pm, touched down at 10:04 pm after circling for approximately an hour east of Singapore. The delay was due to intensive security measures implemented in response to an email received by the airline alleging a bomb threat.
Singapore’s Defence Minister, Ng Eng Hen, detailed the response in a Facebook post, stating, “Two of our Republic of Singapore Air Force’s F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas before its safe landing at Singapore Changi Airport.” He added that ground-based air defence systems and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team were also activated as precautionary measures.
The Singapore Police Force, which was alerted to the threat at 8:25 pm, conducted thorough security checks upon the aircraft’s arrival. In a statement released on 16 October, they confirmed that no dangerous items were found on board. The police emphasised that investigations are ongoing and warned that action would be taken against those responsible for intentionally causing public alarm.
This incident was not isolated, as reports suggest that at least five Indian flights received bomb threats on the same day. The wave of threats led to emergency checks and at least two emergency landings, including an Air India flight from New Delhi to Chicago that was diverted to Iqaluit Airport in Canada.
The swift and coordinated response by Singaporean authorities highlights the seriousness with which such threats are treated in the aviation industry. Minister Ng Eng Hen praised the dedication and professionalism of Singapore’s armed forces and Home Team, underscoring their role in maintaining public safety.
