Air India Express Pilot's Lawyer Contests Facts in Delhi Airport Altercation

The lawyer for Air India Express Captain Virender Sejwal stated that facts are being misrepresented. Captain Virender Sejwal lawyer Sonali Karwasra Joon said the recent narrative is one-sided. The statement claims the Delhi airport incident facts are distorted on social media. The incident involved Captain Sejwal and a passenger, Ankit Dewan, at Terminal 1. [Air India Express pilot suspension] was ordered following the December 19 altercation.

Background of the Altercation

The dispute began at a security-check lane for staff and persons with reduced mobility. Captain Sejwal was off-duty and traveling as a passenger at the time. The passenger, Ankit Dewan, alleged the pilot assaulted him after a dispute over queue-jumping. The passenger shared images of his injuries on social media.

Pilot's Defense and Counter-Allegations

Captain Sejwal’s lawyer asserts the incident was a purely personal matter between two passengers. The lawyer claims the association with the pilot's professional role is unwarranted. The statement alleges the passenger initiated the confrontation with verbal abuse. Furthermore, the lawyer claimed the pilot was subjected to casteist remarks and threats. Threats were allegedly made against female family members, including a child.

According to the lawyer, the [passenger altercation Delhi airport] was resolved promptly. It was settled in the presence of CISF officials. Both parties reportedly signed a statement confirming they would not pursue legal action. However, the passenger later claimed he was forced to sign this document.

Regulatory and Airline Response

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) took serious notice of the incident. MoCA directed the airline to ground the pilot immediately. A formal inquiry was ordered by the ministry. Reports were sought from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and CISF.

Air India Express confirmed the [pilot investigation pending]. The airline removed Captain Sejwal from official duties. They stated they unequivocally condemn such behavior. Disciplinary action will follow based on the inquiry findings. Separately, Delhi Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Captain Sejwal. This action followed a formal complaint received from the passenger via email.

Industry Impact and Oversight

This high-profile incident highlights the scrutiny on airline crew conduct standards. Even off-duty, airline personnel are expected to maintain professional behavior. The incident raises questions about aviation safety protocols India. The integrity of airport security and resolution processes is also under review. The pilot’s lawyer asks the public to rely only on verified facts. The case underscores the challenges of social media narratives versus formal investigations.

• The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has ordered a formal inquiry.
• The pilot remains suspended from official duties.
• The Delhi Police has filed an FIR against the pilot based on the passenger's complaint.