Bomb Threat Panic: IndiGo Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Lucknow After Scary Mid-Air Alert
ACP Rajneesh Verma said a handwritten message on a tissue paper claiming a bomb was on board was found inside the aircraft’s toilet.
New Delhi: An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Bagdogra made an urgent landing in Lucknow on Sunday after a bomb threat alarmed crew and passengers. Police and aviation security teams are currently carrying out a thorough search of the aircraft.
Why did the plane divert?
ACP Rajneesh Verma said a handwritten message on a tissue paper claiming a bomb was on board was found inside the aircraft’s toilet. The note was taken seriously by airline and airport authorities, prompting an immediate diversion to Lucknow where security teams could respond.
The flight, IndiGo 6E‑6650, was carrying 238 passengers, including 222 adults and 8 infants, along with two pilots and five crew members.
IndiGo Spokesperson says, "A security threat was noticed onboard IndiGo flight 6E 6650 operating from Delhi to Bagdogra on 18 January 2026, due to which the aircraft was diverted to Lucknow. Following the established protocol, we informed the relevant authorities immediately and… pic.twitter.com/squzsFXbEu
— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2026
Was everyone safe?
All 238 people on board, including 222 adults and 8 infants, were evacuated without injury once the aircraft landed at around 9.17 am. Pilots and cabin crew followed standard emergency protocols, and the plane was directed to an isolation bay for inspection.
An official said, "Information was received that at approximately 08:46 am on 18.01.26, a message was sent from ATC stating there was a bomb on Indigo Airlines flight 6E-6650 (Delhi-Bagdogra). The flight landed safely at approximately 09:17 am."
#WATCH | Visuals of the IndiGo Delhi to Bagdogra flight, which made an emergency landing in Lucknow after a message was found written on a tissue paper in the toilet of the flight, stating that there was a bomb on board.
— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2026
(Source: ACP Rajneesh Verma) pic.twitter.com/cvgiNX8yrz
What happened next on the ground?
Security forces, including the Bomb Disposal Squad and CISF personnel, conducted a thorough search of the aircraft. Passengers and their luggage were screened as part of the investigation. At the time of reporting, authorities were still trying to determine whether the threat was real or a hoax.
What passengers reported?
People on the flight described tense moments after the note was discovered. Many said cabin crew acted quickly to calm passengers and inform them of the situation, though anxiety remained until the plane landed and everyone disembarked.
What’s next in the probe?
Police and aviation security teams in Lucknow are examining the note to find its origin and to check if any credible threat exists. Officials said they will review CCTV footage and interview crew and passengers as part of the inquiry.
This incident comes at a time when aviation safety remains a key concern for travellers, prompting close scrutiny of security procedures and threat responses.
