AirAsia Philippines reported Thursday that bomb-joke incidents have more than doubled thus far in 2026 compared with the whole of 2025. The airline recorded five such cases through October, up from just two for all of last year. The remarks happened at various points during travel—at check-in, boarding gates, and even onboard before takeoff.
AirAsia stressed that any comment about bombs or explosives is treated as a serious security matter, no matter if meant as a joke. Such statements trigger extra security steps including passenger and baggage checks, which can delay flights and disrupt schedules. “Our operations are built on safety and reliability, but any perceived risk requires strict security measures that affect both passenger experience and flight efficiency,” said AirAsia Philippines President and General Manager Anna Victoria Lu. She urged the public to take these lessons seriously and help keep every flight safe and comfortable for all.
Passengers who make such remarks may be refused boarding, removed from a flight, and turned over to the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, depending on the situation. They may also be banned from future travel with AirAsia Philippines, following the airline’s review process.
Beyond airline action, these jokes carry legal penalties under Presidential Decree No. 1727, or the Anti-Bomb Joke Law. The measure punishes deliberate false reports or statements about bombs or explosive devices. Those found guilty may face up to five years in prison, a fine as high as P40,000, or both, as determined by the court.
