Off-duty AI Express pilot suspended after alleged assault at Delhi airport
Off-duty AI Express pilot suspended after alleged assault at Delhi airport
An off-duty Air India Express captain allegedly assaulted a passenger at Delhi's Terminal 1, leading to suspension and a formal investigation.
An off-duty Air India Express captain was reportedly involved in a physical altercation with a passenger at Delhi's Terminal 1, prompting the airline to suspend him pending a full investigation. The incident began as a routine queue dispute near the security area, with a family in tow and a four-month-old baby in a stroller. The passenger, Ankit Dewan, says he and his family were directed to use the security checkpoint typically reserved for staff, a move he felt was improper given the line’s purpose and the busy terminal conditions. Dewan alleges that during the ensuing verbal exchange, the pilot stepped in and challenged him and his family. He says the confrontation escalated into a physical attack, leaving him with a bloody face, and that his seven-year-old daughter, who witnessed the confrontation, remains frightened. The passenger also shared a photo of the injured face and a photo of the pilot involved.
Air India Express issued a statement condemning such behavior and said the employee has been removed from official duties with immediate effect, pending an inquiry. The airline said it will initiate disciplinary action based on the findings of the investigation. At this stage, it is unclear what version of events the airline has or whether other passengers were involved.
Dewan claims he was pressured to sign a letter stating he would not pursue the matter further, or risk missing his flight and potentially losing booked holidays. He says he sought to file a formal police complaint upon returning home, though it isn’t clear if a report was filed. The incident raises broader questions about safety and conduct standards for airline staff and how disruptive episodes are handled in busy airports. The investigation remains ongoing and authorities have yet to release additional details.
This episode adds to ongoing concerns about crowd management and accountability in aviation, particularly when airline staff are involved in disputes with passengers. For travelers, the incident underscores the importance of clear procedures and support in the event of misconduct, with investigations and disciplinary actions expected to follow.
