Air India flight diverted to Jaipur after transponder squawk triggers security sweep
Air India Flight AI 2030, a Boeing 787‑9 on the Frankfurt‑Delhi route, briefly squawked the code 7500 for unlawful interference. The pilot told air traffic control there was no hijack, but ATC ordered the aircraft to land at Jaipur International Airport. Upon arrival the plane was parked in an isolation bay where the Central Industrial Security Force, local police and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad examined the cabin and passengers' belongings, and all occupants were evacuated to a holding area. The airline has not commented, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has announced an investigation into the incident.
Why it matters
The episode shows how a transponder signal can prompt extensive security actions and disrupt international flights.
How this story developed
- Oct 14 Air India Flight Diverts to Jaipur After Hijacking Rumor Triggers Security Sweep
- Oct 17 The DGCA has opened an investigation into the cause of the 7500 squawk.
