An American Airlines flight from JFK to Delhi was forced to land in Rome after an alleged bomb scare, prompting security protocols and military intervention.
February 24, 2025: Rome/New Delhi: An American Airlines flight (AA292) from New York to New Delhi was diverted to Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport due to an alleged bomb threat, according to reports from Italy’s ANSA news agency and airport officials.
The Boeing 787-9 aircraft, carrying 199 passengers and crew, took off from JFK International Airport on February 22 but was forced to change course mid-flight after authorities were alerted to a potential security threat.
Emergency Landing & Fighter Jet Escort
As per standard security protocol, the aircraft was escorted by two fighter jets of the Italian Air Force before making a safe landing in Rome at around 5:30 PM local time. Italian airport authorities confirmed that the plane landed without incident, and all passengers were safely deboarded and given assistance.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also acknowledged the emergency, stating that the crew reported a security issue, leading to the precautionary diversion.
Airline’s Response & Passenger Safety
American Airlines released a statement affirming that “safety and security remain the top priority”, thanking passengers for their cooperation. Despite the incident, authorities confirmed that normal airport operations were unaffected.
Flight Details & Visuals from the Scene
According to American Airlines’ flight tracker, AA292 departed from JFK at 8:14 PM (EST) on February 22, originally bound for Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.
Visuals circulating on social media showed the aircraft being shadowed by Italian fighter jets as it approached Rome’s airport, underscoring the seriousness of the threat. Further investigations are underway to determine the nature of the security alert.
Tags:
New York-Delhi flight diverted, American Airlines bomb threat, flight emergency landing Rome, security alert at Rome airport, JFK to Delhi flight news, Italian Air Force escorts plane, FAA security incident, aviation safety protocols