A passenger travelling with Air India Express has alleged that he was physically assaulted by a pilot at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The incident reportedly took place after a disagreement at the airport security checkpoint.
Dispute Over Security Queue
The incident occurred at Terminal 1 during the security screening process. The passenger was travelling with his family, including a four-month-old baby. Airport staff directed him to use a priority security lane.
Priority Lane Confusion
The priority lane is meant for airport staff and passengers with reduced mobility. The passenger reportedly noticed several staff members cutting the queue. He objected to this and questioned the practice.
Pilot Identified in Altercation
During the confrontation, the passenger allegedly came face to face with the pilot, later identified as Captain Virender Sejwal. The situation escalated quickly as tempers flared on both sides.
Alleged Verbal and Physical Assault
The pilot is accused of verbally abusing the passenger during the argument. He allegedly called him “uneducated” before the confrontation turned physical. The passenger reportedly sustained injuries in the incident.
Airline Responds to Allegations
Air India Express has acknowledged that the incident took place. The airline condemned the behaviour attributed to the pilot. It also confirmed that the pilot has been removed from duties pending investigation.
Concerns Over Aviation Safety
The complainant raised concerns about how aviation regulators allow such individuals to operate aircraft. He also criticised airport authorities for mismanagement in a sensitive security zone.
