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If a flight is delayed due to a threatening message, will you still receive a refund? Learn the rules.
Siddhi Jain | December 2, 2025 6:15 PM CST

Flight Refund Rules: If someone threatens to bomb a flight and this causes a flight delay, can passengers receive a refund? Learn the rules.

Today, December 2nd, an IndiGo flight from Kuwait to Hyderabad received a sudden bomb threat. The pilot immediately took precautionary measures and made an emergency landing at Mumbai Airport, resulting in a significant delay. Passengers are now wondering whether they can receive a refund in such a situation.

Rules have been established for refunds in case of flight delays. If the delay is due to a technical fault, operational problem, or airline error, passengers are entitled to a refund, rebooking, or compensation. However, when the issue involves safety concerns, the rules apply slightly differently.

In the event of receiving a threatening message, security alert, bomb squad inspection, or any other high-risk information, the airline has no option but to cancel a flight. Such cases are considered acts of security concern, meaning the airline is not at fault, and the delay is caused by security agencies.

However, passengers can still receive a refund. If a flight is delayed by several hours or further travel becomes difficult due to security checks, passengers can request a refund. Many airlines offer a full refund or free rebooking option in such cases. However, this depends on the airline's policy.

According to regulations, if a flight is delayed so much that passengers cannot travel as per their needs, they can cancel their ticket. The airline considers this an exceptional case and provides a refund. The passenger simply needs to submit a request to customer service or the airline counter, detailing the delay and the reason for the delay.

Civil Aviation guidelines state that in the event of a security threat, airlines will ensure passenger comfort. If delays last for hours, water, snacks, or essential assistance are provided. Sometimes, airlines themselves offer passengers the option of rebooking.

If you encounter a delay due to a threat in the future, there's no need to panic. First, check the airline's updates and then request a refund or rebooking from customer support. Despite strict regulations, airlines often support passengers in such cases. It's important to follow the correct procedures.


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