February 24, New Delhi: An American Airlines flight from New York to New Delhi was diverted to Rome on Sunday afternoon following a potential security concern, the airline confirmed. Flight 292, carrying 199 passengers and crew, landed safely at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO) at 5:22 pm local time after the crew reported a security issue.
While American Airlines did not disclose specific details, an Italian airport spokesperson described the incident as an “alleged bomb scare.” Upon landing, law enforcement officials thoroughly inspected the Boeing aircraft and cleared it for departure, confirming the threat as non-credible.
The diversion was reportedly prompted by Indian security protocols, which require inspections for any potential security issues before landing in New Delhi. “The possible issue was determined to be non-credible, but per DEL Airport protocol, an inspection was required,” an airline official explained on condition of anonymity.
Passengers and crew were safely disembarked and provided assistance at the airport, with no disruptions to operations. The flight was also escorted by two military fighter jets as a precautionary measure, according to the Italian airport spokesperson.
Due to the delay, the aircraft will remain in Rome overnight to allow the crew to rest before resuming its journey to New Delhi the following day. American Airlines assured that the safety of passengers and crew remained its top priority throughout the incident.
The airline expressed gratitude to authorities for their swift response and reiterated its commitment to adhering to all safety and security protocols. “Flight 292 has been cleared to continue its journey, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our passengers,” the airline stated.
This incident highlights the rigorous safety measures in place for international flights, ensuring passenger security remains paramount even in uncertain situations.
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