Left me bleeding: Air India pilot grounded after passengers claims assault at Delhi airport

PTC News Desk: A Spice Jet passenger has accused an Air India pilot of physically assaulting him and leaving him bleeding after a dispute at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport Terminal 1. 

A SpiceJet passenger has alleged that he was physically assaulted by an Air India Express pilot following an argument at Terminal 1 of Indira Gandhi International Airport. Air India Express has acknowledged the complaint and said the pilot has been taken off duty while an internal investigation is conducted.

The passenger, Ankit Dewan, said the incident took place while he was travelling with his family, including his four-month-old baby in a stroller. He claimed airport staff directed them to use the staff and PRM security lane because of the infant. Dewan alleged that some people began bypassing the queue, and when he objected, a pilot—identified as Captain Virender—questioned his literacy and told him the entry was meant only for staff.

According to Dewan, the argument quickly escalated, and he alleged that the pilot physically attacked him, causing injuries and leaving him bleeding. In a social media post, Dewan said the blood visible on the pilot’s shirt was his and shared an image revealing the pilot’s face.

He further said the incident disrupted his family vacation and deeply disturbed his young daughter, who witnessed the alleged assault.

Air India Express, in a statement, acknowledged an incident involving one of its employees at Delhi Airport. The airline said the employee was travelling as a passenger on another airline at the time and was involved in an altercation with another passenger.

"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," Air India Express said.

"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," it added.