The government of India has introduced significant changes to the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023, including stringent penalties for individuals making bomb hoaxes. Under the revised rules, anyone found guilty of sharing false bomb threat information can face a fine of up to Rs 1 crore. The move aims to enhance security measures and deter such disruptive acts, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation issued a gazette notification on the addition of Section 30A to the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023. This section specifically targets individuals who share false information that could jeopardize the safety of an aircraft, aerodrome, or any civil aviation facility. It also addresses the potential to cause panic among passengers, crew members, ground personnel, or the general public, or to disrupt civil aviation operations.
The updated rules aim to strengthen the aviation security framework in India and impose severe consequences for acts that could endanger the smooth functioning of the aviation sector. In addition to Section 30A, the revised rules introduce Rule 29A, which grants the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) the authority to issue directives for denying boarding to individuals or groups suspected of compromising safety. The DGCA also has the power to remove such individuals from an aircraft to ensure security and operational continuity.
This revision in security rules underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and security in India’s aviation sector, reflecting its proactive stance in addressing evolving security challenges. The hefty fine for bomb hoaxes serves as a strong deterrent against such actions, which can have serious implications for both public safety and the smooth functioning of aviation operations.
