An Air India flight from New Delhi to Chicago was forced to make an emergency landing in Iqaluit early Tuesday morning following a bomb threat. The aircraft, carrying 211 passengers and crew, touched down at approximately 5:21 a.m. local time. All aboard were safely evacuated and relocated to Iqaluit International Airport.
Air India confirmed that the emergency landing was a precautionary measure following a security threat posted online. The RCMP is currently investigating the bomb threat, working in coordination with airport authorities and the Canada Border Services Agency. The plane will remain grounded until it is cleared of any danger.
Air India, along with other airlines, has faced multiple threats recently, though they have all been deemed hoaxes. The airline is cooperating with authorities to identify the source of these threats and may pursue legal action to recover damages.
This incident follows a day after Canada and India expelled diplomats amidst growing tensions related to allegations of Indian government involvement in criminal targeting of Khalistani supporters in Canada. There is no current indication of who is responsible for the bomb threat.