An Air India aircraft carrying 156 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport in Thailand on Thursday after receiving a bomb threat mid-flight. The aircraft, which had originally taken off from Phuket en route to Delhi, turned back and landed safely. All passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, according to airport authorities.

The incident unfolded shortly after takeoff, when the flight crew reportedly received a signal indicating the possible presence of an explosive device on board. In response, the pilot declared an emergency and rerouted the aircraft, executing a controlled loop over the Andaman Sea before making a precautionary landing back at Phuket.

Emergency services were on standby as the aircraft touched down. Passengers were promptly disembarked, and security teams began a thorough inspection of the plane. As of now, no explosives have been found, but authorities are continuing their investigation into the origin and credibility of the threat.

Thailand’s civil aviation and airport security officials confirmed that safety protocols were followed, and that the passengers were calm and cooperative throughout the process.

Air India issued a brief statement following the incident:
“The safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. Our crew acted swiftly and professionally in response to the threat, and we are working closely with Thai authorities to assist with the investigation.”

This is the latest in a string of recent operational disruptions for Air India, raising renewed concerns about airline safety and emergency preparedness. The Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to conduct a parallel inquiry.

There were no reported injuries, and arrangements are being made to transport the passengers to their final destination.

More updates will follow as the investigation continues.