Air India Express Pilot Suspended as Delhi Police Probe IGI Airport Assault

The Delhi Police have launched a formal investigation, collecting material evidence in the alleged Air India Express pilot assault case at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI). The incident, which occurred on December 19 at Terminal 1, involved an altercation between an off-duty pilot and a passenger.

Police officials are actively collecting CCTV footage from multiple cameras near the security area. They are also recording statements from witnesses to accurately reconstruct the sequence of events. An FIR has been filed based on a complaint received from the victim, Ankit Dewan.

Airline and Regulatory Response

Air India Express has taken swift action against the employee involved. The airline confirmed that Captain Virender Sejwal, who was off-duty and traveling as a passenger, has been removed from official duties with immediate effect.

• The airline has issued a show-cause notice to the pilot.
• An internal investigation is currently underway.
• The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has ordered a formal inquiry.
• MoCA has sought detailed reports from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

This high-level intervention underscores the serious nature of the incident for the aviation sector. Such events raise concerns about airline employee conduct and airport security protocols.

Details of the Allegation

The case stems from an airport queue altercation near the security checkpoint. Passenger Ankit Dewan alleged that the off-duty pilot verbally abused and physically assaulted him. The incident reportedly began after Dewan objected to staff members allegedly cutting the queue.

Dewan later stated that a CT scan confirmed a displaced fracture of his left nasal bone. He is actively seeking justice following the alleged assault. The incident was witnessed by his seven-year-old daughter, causing her distress.

The accused pilot, Captain Sejwal, has denied the allegations through a law firm. His counter-statement claims that Dewan initiated the confrontation and used verbal abuse.

Industry Impact and Future Action

This incident highlights the need for strict adherence to professional ethics, even for off-duty pilot suspended from flight operations. Airlines like Air India operate under a comprehensive Tata Code of Conduct (TCOC). This code mandates that employees uphold ethical standards. Their behavior must not negatively affect the airline's reputation.

Airport authorities, including the Airports Authority of India, also emphasize a code of conduct. This code ensures an ethical and safe environment for all passengers and staff.

The ongoing Delhi Police investigation will rely heavily on the collected CCTV evidence. The findings will determine the legal and disciplinary future of the Air India Express pilot. The DGCA may review existing guidelines on crew behavior in public areas. This is true even when they are traveling as regular passengers. The aviation industry must maintain the highest standards of professionalism for all staff. This is vital for passenger trust and smooth commercial aviation news and operations. [flying.flights] The outcome of the police and internal inquiries will set a precedent for future employee misconduct cases.