New Aviation Rules: Hoax Bomb Threats Could Lead To Heavy Fines Of Upto Rs 1 Crore

Placing hoax bomb threats that disrupt civil aviation operations can invite a fine of up to Rs 1 crore. The Aircraft Rules amendment, hoax bomb threats would be classified in the highest level of severity—Level 6—under the rule. The gazette notification detailing the amendment introduces a new rule titled “Prohibition to Communicate False Information.” This rule states that no person can communicate false information to jeopardise the safety and security of “an aircraft, aerodrome, civil aviation facility, or both”, they cannot cause panic among passengers, crew, ground personnel, or the general public. Additionally, another rule has been introduced, granting the Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security the authority to issue written directions to “refuse admission to any person or group of persons in the aircraft” or to “require any person or group of persons to leave the aircraft.” This rule serves as a facilitating provision to ban individuals responsible for such threats from flying, as per The Indian Express.