Akasa Air Passenger Alleges Fungal Infection From Unhygienic Bengaluru Flight

January 1, 2026 at 08:22 AM•3 min read

Akasa Air is reviewing a passenger's claim that unhygienic conditions on a Bengaluru to Ahmedabad flight caused a severe fungal infection, sparking an industry debate.

Key Points

1Passenger Jahanvi Tripathi alleged a severe fungal infection following a December 26 Akasa Air flight.
2The complaint cited unhygienic seat conditions on the Bengaluru to Ahmedabad route, leaving her 'unable to walk properly'.
3Akasa Air expressed regret and stated the matter is under immediate review, emphasizing its commitment to high hygiene standards.
4The incident sparked an online debate contrasting the passenger's claim with the known efficacy of aircraft HEPA filtration systems.

A passenger has publicly alleged that poor onboard hygiene during a recent flight with Akasa Air caused a severe fungal infection. The complaint raises serious questions about airline sanitation protocols and passenger health concerns in the Indian aviation sector.

Passenger Allegation and Health Impact

Jahanvi Tripathi shared her experience on LinkedIn. She was traveling with friends from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad on December 26. The flight was scheduled to depart late in the evening. Tripathi claimed the aircraft seats were unhygienic. She said this caused severe discomfort during the flight.

Shortly after the journey, Tripathi alleged she developed a severe fungal infection on her legs. She stated the condition worsened rapidly. The infection has reportedly left her unable to walk properly or sleep comfortably. She is currently undergoing medical treatment. Tripathi urged the airline to investigate the hygiene standards.

Akasa Air's Official Response

Responding to the public post, Akasa Air issued a statement. The airline expressed sincere regret for the passenger's experience. It maintained that the reported conditions do not reflect its standards. Akasa Air stated it is committed to the highest levels of hygiene and customer well-being. The airline confirmed the feedback was under immediate review. They also promised to reach out to the customer at the earliest.

Industry Context and Hygiene Debate

This Akasa Air hygiene complaint has triggered an online debate. Some users expressed concern over cabin cleanliness. They called for a thorough inspection of aircraft interiors. Others, however, questioned the direct link between the flight and the infection. They pointed to the advanced air systems used in modern aircraft.

Commercial aircraft cabins use HEPA filtration systems. These systems refresh the air every few minutes. They are designed to remove 99.97% of airborne particles. This includes bacteria and fungal spores. Additionally, aircraft cabins maintain dry conditions. Fungi generally thrive in warm, moist environments. This makes a direct causal link difficult to prove.

Nonetheless, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India oversees all airline operations. DGCA aviation standards require operators to maintain safe environments. Globally, the ICAO and WHO issue guidance on hygiene and sanitation. These standards cover water, food, waste disposal, and cleaning of facilities. Airlines are responsible for ensuring their conveyances are free of contamination sources.

This incident highlights the importance of rigorous cleaning and maintenance routines (Akasa Air's stated policy). It also underscores the need for transparent communication with passengers. The aviation industry must address all passenger health concerns seriously. The outcome of the airline's review is awaited. This story is an important piece of commercial aviation news.