Bomb threats on flights: What travelers should know about insurance coverage

In recent weeks, a rise in bomb threats has disrupted flights across India, causing delays and increased anxiety among travelers. With the increase in these incidents, travelers are raising concerns about how travel insurance policies apply in such situations.

This is how travel insurance works in these cases and what travelers can expect from their policies.

Does travel insurance cover bomb threats and hoaxes?

travel insurance It generally covers cancellations or delays related to emergencies, but policies often differ when threats or deception are involved. Shilpa Arora, co-founder and COO of Insurance Samadhan, explains that most standard travel insurance policies do not cover disruptions caused by fake bomb threats.

“Existing travel policies do not cover interruptions caused by hoax calls. However, as this problem becomes more widespread, the insurance industry could consider changes to address it,” Arora says.

Normally only credible threats or official notices give rise to compensation. According to Rakesh Goyal, director of Probus Insurance, the possibility of a claim depends largely on whether the policy defines the situation as a qualifying event, such as a verified airport closure or a government-issued advisory.

Compensation for trip cancellations or delays

When bomb threats cause trip cancellations, travelers may wonder about possible compensation. Goyal explains that eligibility for reimbursement depends on the nature of the threat and the specific terms outlined in each insurance policy.

“If a traveler cancels their trip following a credible bomb threat and an official notice, they may be reimbursed for non-refundable expenses such as flights and hotel reservations,” says Goyal. Additional expenses may also be covered if alternative travel arrangements are necessary.

Arora notes that claims are often assessed on a case-by-case basis. If the airline is deemed to be at fault, compensation may be possible, but this scenario is rare unless authorities recognize that the threat is legitimate.

How insurers evaluate bomb threats

A common concern for travelers is how insurers evaluate the validity of bomb threats, especially in cases of hoaxes. Goyal highlights that insurers rely on official reports from airlines, airport operators and law enforcement authorities to assess whether a claim is valid.

“Insurance companies base their decision on evaluations carried out by airlines and airport operators. If authorities classify the incident as a hoax, claims are generally denied unless security measures or advisories are issued,” explains Goyal.

Arora highlights the importance of reviewing policy details and discussing potential scenarios with insurers. Given the recent increase in these types of incidents, clarity in coverage terms can help travelers make informed decisions during peak travel seasons.

What should travelers do?

As bomb hoaxes become more common, travelers should carefully examine their travel insurance policies. Arora suggests talking to insurers about how security threats and deceptions are handled under current policy terms.

Travelers should also stay up to date on official advisories before modifying their travel plans. “A refund is more likely to occur if cancellations occur following a notice or airport closure,” advises Goyal.