The government is considering tougher penalties, including up to five years in prison, in the case of false bomb threats to airlines, officials said.

At least 26 such threats were reported last week, disrupting flights, causing financial losses to airlines and creating widespread panic among passengers.

Sources said the officials of the civil aviation ministry are working with other ministries on amendments to the Aircraft Act, 1934, and Aircraft Rules, 1937, and subordinate legislations to ensure 5-year imprisonment as well as placing offenders on a no-fly list.

The stringent provision could be brought in by an Ordinance, and the legislation could be introduced in the next session of Parliament.

Analysts pointed out the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code, 1860, has provisions to haul up offenders.

Statements causing public alarm are punishable by up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both; criminal intimidation through anonymous communication can lead to two years of imprisonment in addition to the punishment for intimidation.

Besides, making a false report to public servants with intent to cause harm can result in imprisonment of up to six months or a fine.

Under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 if the threat creates a perception of terrorism, the act may be invoked.

The Disaster Management Act, 2005, has a provision for penalties, including imprisonment of up to one year or a fine,for creating a panic that disrupts emergency services.

Aviation experts said such hoax calls also result in huge financial costs to the airline and according to some estimates, the cost of each diversion may reach up to ₹13-17 lakh per hour for every incident, with international flights potentially incurring three to five times that amount.