Air India Express Pilot Grounded After Alleged Delhi Airport Assault Causes

A dispute at the security checkpoint of Delhi Airport Terminal 1 has led to a police case and a major airline investigation.

The incident on December 19 involved off-duty Air India Express Captain Virender Sejwal and passenger Ankit Dewan. Mr. Dewan alleged the altercation began when he objected to staff members cutting the security queue. He claimed the pilot verbally abused him before physically assaulting him. The passenger's seven-year-old daughter reportedly witnessed the encounter, causing her distress.

Passenger Injury and Legal Action

Mr. Dewan confirmed a CT scan showed a displaced fracture of his left nasal bone and is actively seeking justice. He submitted a formal complaint to the Delhi Police.

• The Delhi Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) on December 22.
• The case falls under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
• Specific sections include 115 (voluntarily causing hurt), 126 (wrongful restraint), and 351.
• Police officials are currently investigating the matter, including reviewing CCTV footage from the terminal.

Pilot's Counter-Allegations and Airline Response

The pilot, Captain Sejwal, through his legal representation, has denied the assault claim. His lawyer stated the matter was initially resolved with Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officials. The pilot's side also alleged that Mr. Dewan initiated the confrontation with verbal abuse and made casteist remarks.

Air India Express responded swiftly to the public allegations. The airline issued a statement condemning the alleged behavior. They confirmed the pilot was traveling as a passenger on another airline at the time.

• The airline removed the pilot from official duties immediately.
• A show-cause notice has been served to Captain Sejwal, pending a thorough internal investigation.
• The Ministry of Civil Aviation took serious notice, ordering the pilot's immediate grounding and a formal inquiry.
• Detailed reports were sought from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the CISF.

Industry and Regulatory Impact

This high-profile incident highlights the critical importance of professional conduct for airline employees, even when off-duty. Aviation professionals are held to higher standards of behavior both on and off the job. This is due to the nature of their safety-critical roles.

Such altercations can severely damage an airline's brand reputation. Air India Express has emphasized its commitment to high standards. The Ministry of Civil Aviation's quick intervention underscores the regulatory focus on passenger safety and experience. The outcome of the police and internal inquiries will set a precedent for future employee conduct cases. This is a developing story in commercial aviation news. The DGCA oversees the conduct and fitness of all licensed flight crew. The final disciplinary action will be closely monitored by the entire industry.