New Delhi, Dec 20 (UNI) Air India Express has grounded its pilot who thrashed and punched a passenger travelling with his family with toddler, leaving him with a black eye and bleeding face at Delhi Airport T1 on Friday.
The pilot, identified as Vijender Sejwal, reportedly attacked the passenger when the latter protested to his jumping the queue.
“The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has taken serious cognizance of the incident and directed the airline to ground the pilot with immediate effect. A formal enquiry has been ordered. Detailed reports have been sought from BCAS and CISF,” Ministry said on its official handle.
According to a series of social media posts by the passenger Ankit Dewan and multiple authorities including Air India Express, Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), the incident occurred when Devan family were allowed to use staff channel for entry because their 4 month old baby.
Pics and clips circulating on social media showed a shocked Devan wiping blood from his face and Sejwal looking over the him fallen on the floor, with at least three security personnel just stood watching.
The scuffle broke out when the pilot pushed his way forward by jumping the queue and Devan apparently objected to it. Devan has also alleged that the CISF staff prevented him to rush out after he was hit and get some medical aid while doing nothing themselves.
Responding to Devan’s post Air India Express said,”We profoundly regret this incident at Delhi Airport, involving one of our employees who was traveling as a passenger on another airline. We extend our heartfelt empathy for the distress it has caused, and strongly condemn such behaviour. The concerned employee has been removed from official duties with immediate effect, and appropriate action will be taken pending thorough investigation.”
“While we refrain from public comments while due process is followed, please be assured this matter has our highest attention. We remain fully committed to provide due cooperation to law enforcement authorities to ensure a fair and thorough process,” the airline added.
Devan says his family remains traumatised and holidays ruined.
Air India Express grounds pilot for thrashing passenger
