Air India Express bomb scare: Crew member detained after 60–70% handwriting match

A crew member and a passenger are being questioned over a bomb threat note found aboard an Air India Express flight travelling from Dammam to Delhi on Monday, according to sources.

The aircraft was diverted to Ahmedabad after a threatening message was discovered inside its lavatory. The airline subsequently filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Airport Police, while the Crime Branch has also joined the investigation.

Handwriting similarity being examined

A preliminary handwriting examination has reportedly found a 60–70% similarity between the writing on the note and that of one of the eight crew members on board, sources said.

Seven crew members have reportedly been allowed to leave Ahmedabad. The crew member whose handwriting is being examined has been detained for further questioning.

Investigators are also questioning a passenger who allegedly went to the aircraft's lavatory several times during the flight. Police are examining the movements of both individuals as they try to determine who left the note inside the washroom.

Air India Express confirms complaint

Air India Express said the incident occurred on its Dammam-Delhi service on August 31 and confirmed that it had approached law enforcement agencies.

“We are aware that the law enforcement agencies are investigating a security-related incident involving our flight operating from Dammam to Delhi on 31 August 2026, pursuant to a complaint filed by us," it said.

“The airline is fully cooperating with the relevant agencies in the investigation. We unequivocally condemn any conduct that compromises or has the potential to compromise the safety and security of our guests, crew and operations. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation," the airline added.

Flight diverted after note found

The Dammam-Delhi flight was diverted to Ahmedabad after a crew member found a tissue paper inside the lavatory carrying the word “bomb”.

Following the landing, Ahmedabad Police said all 32 passengers on board were safely deboarded at Terminal 2.

Security agencies then carried out a detailed inspection of the aircraft as a precautionary measure. The investigation is continuing, with authorities looking into the circumstances surrounding the threat note and the people who may have had access to the lavatory.