American Airlines flight diverted to Rome after bomb threat deemed false |

A Delhi-bound American Airlines flight from New York was forced to divert to Rome on Sunday, February 23, after a bomb threat was reported on board.

The incident, which led to the aircraft being escorted by fighter jets, was later determined to be a non-credible threat.

The flight, American Airlines Flight 292, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, was carrying 199 passengers and 15 crew members. It was just two hours away from its destination when it was rerouted over Turkmenistan due to a “possible security issue.”

The airline confirmed the aircraft landed safely at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport after being escorted by two Italian Eurofighter Typhoon warplanes.

Passengers on board said the first indication of a problem came when the captain announced a “diversion due to a security issue.” The plane made an abrupt 180-degree turn, reversing its course from New Delhi and heading back toward Europe.

The flight remained grounded for nearly 15 hours as authorities worked to assess the situation. According to sources, a bomb threat had been received via email but was later determined to be unfounded. Indian authorities insisted the aircraft be thoroughly checked before continuing its journey to New Delhi.

After landing in Rome, passengers were taken to the terminal for screening, and the aircraft underwent a detailed inspection. American Airlines thanked customers for their understanding and reassured the public that “safety and security are our top priorities.” The flight is scheduled to depart for Delhi on Monday.