Passenger Alleges Assault By Airline Pilot At Delhi Airport; Probe Ordered

A dispute at Indira Gandhi International Airport’s Terminal 1 has triggered widespread attention after a SpiceJet passenger accused an Air India Express pilot of physically assaulting him during boarding procedures.

The alleged incident, which unfolded earlier this week, has since drawn responses from both the airline and the Delhi Police.

The passenger, identified as Ankit Dewan, shared images on social media showing blood on his face and said the altercation took place in the presence of his young daughter, leaving her traumatised.

According to Dewan, he was travelling with his family, including a four-month-old infant in a stroller, when airport staff directed them to use a lane typically reserved for staff to ease their movement through security.

He alleged that while standing in the queue, some staff members attempted to move ahead of him, leading to an argument.

Dewan claimed that the situation escalated after he questioned the queue-cutting, resulting in a heated verbal exchange with an Air India Express pilot, whom he later identified in his posts. He alleged that the pilot physically attacked him, leaving him injured.

The passenger also questioned his inability to lodge a formal complaint immediately and raised concerns that crucial CCTV footage might be lost during the delay. He further alleged that officials compelled him to sign a statement agreeing not to pursue the matter to avoid missing his flight and losing substantial travel bookings.

The Delhi Police said they learnt about the incident through social media, but confirmed that they have not received any formal written complaint so far.

Police officials said they will take appropriate legal action once the victim formally lodges a complaint.

Air India Express Takes Action

Air India Express condemned the alleged behaviour and said it does not tolerate misconduct by its employees.

In a statement, the airline confirmed that it has removed the employee concerned from official duties with immediate effect, pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

The airline clarified that the individual was travelling as a passenger on another airline at the time of the incident and was not on duty. It reiterated its commitment to maintaining professional conduct among staff at all times.

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