Air India Flight AI 2957 Triggers Hijack Alert, Panic Ensues

New Delhi, January 29, 2025: In a dramatic turn of events, Air India’s flight AI 2957, bound for Mumbai, triggered a hijack alert shortly after taking off from Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in New Delhi on Monday evening. The emergency signal, which was transmitted at 8:40 PM, caused a wave of panic and led to immediate security measures being activated at the Delhi air traffic control (ATC).

Emergency Signal Triggers Swift Action
The alert raised concerns about a potential hijacking, which led to swift coordination between aviation authorities, security agencies, and airlines. Following the distress signal, all related protocols were triggered, and security teams were dispatched to assess the situation. Authorities in Delhi immediately contacted the flight crew to gather more information.

Initial reports indicated that the aircraft had sent a distress call, raising concerns that it may have been under threat. However, it remains unclear whether this was a false alarm or a real hijack attempt. The air traffic control, alongside security teams, monitored the situation closely, and the flight was safely tracked as it continued its journey.

Security Protocols and Response
The aviation safety protocols for suspected hijack situations are among the strictest in the world. In this case, the Indian Air Force and local security agencies were put on high alert as part of the standard operating procedures for hijack threats. According to officials, military jets were placed on standby, and the flight was escorted by security forces during its route.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has also been involved in coordinating with both the Delhi police and airport security to ensure a secure airspace environment. Though the situation caused brief panic, officials were quick to assure the public that the protocols are designed to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members.

Passenger and Crew Safety
Air India has confirmed that all passengers and crew members on board AI 2957 were safe during the emergency. The airline issued a statement reassuring the public, saying, “The safety and security of our passengers are our utmost priority. We are working closely with the authorities to investigate the situation and ensure that all procedures were followed correctly.”

The flight, which was already in the air when the alert was triggered, continued its journey to Mumbai under heightened surveillance. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine whether the alert was due to a technical malfunction, a communication error, or an actual security threat.

The Aftermath and Investigation
While the incident caused considerable distress, especially among the families and friends of those aboard, no immediate reports suggest any serious harm to those on board. Air India has assured that emergency protocols were followed, and passengers were kept informed throughout the situation.

The investigation is ongoing, and aviation experts have been brought in to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Aviation safety officials are also reviewing the airline’s communication systems and air traffic control procedures to understand how such an alert was initiated and what caused it.

Global Response and Precedent
This incident has drawn comparisons to similar events in the past, where hijack threats or false alarms have prompted widespread panic, such as the 2021 incident involving a United Airlines flight or the 2019 EgyptAir hijack attempt. While rare, such situations are closely monitored by security agencies to prevent escalation.

Aviation security experts emphasize the importance of immediate response to hijack alerts, even if they may sometimes turn out to be false. The coordination between civil aviation authorities, military forces, and local law enforcement is vital to maintaining the security of air travel in such uncertain situations.

Conclusion and Outlook
The Air India AI 2957 hijack alert serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges that airlines, airports, and security agencies face in ensuring the safety of passengers. Although investigations into the incident continue, the swift response of aviation authorities ensured that the flight continued its journey without any loss of life.

While the situation may have been a false alarm, it highlights the importance of preparedness and timely intervention in dealing with aviation emergencies. More updates will be provided as investigations unfold.