The situations are not equal. "We are checking the plane for bombs" cannot be interpreted as a threat. If it were to be misunderstood as serious, it would indi

The situations are not equal. "We are checking the plane for bombs" cannot be interpreted as a threat. If it were to be misunderstood as serious, it would indicate an abundance of caution by the airline. "I am going to blow up a plane" sure can. If it were to be misunderstood as serious, it would indicate an immediate threat to the health and safety of hundreds of people.