Scindia calls passengers eating on tarmac a shameful incident

PTC News Desk: Amidst the controversy surrounding a video showing IndiGo passengers eating on the Mumbai airport tarmac, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia expresses strong disapproval, labeling the security breach as "completely unacceptable." The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has imposed a ₹1.2 crore fine on IndiGo, while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) fines Mumbai airport authorities ₹30 lakh.

Scindia emphasizes the growth and importance of the aviation sector, acknowledging its continuous evolution to meet the needs of passengers. He addresses recent challenges, including dense fog causing delays in north India. Explaining the complexities of flight movements during adverse weather, he underscores the interplay between runway capabilities, aircraft, and human resources.

Referring to the Mumbai incident on January 14, where passengers sat on the tarmac after an IndiGo flight diversion, Scindia deems the circumstances "completely unacceptable" and questions why the aircraft was not allotted a parking stand. He assures swift action with show-cause notices and penalties within 24 hours.

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IndiGo issues an apology, vowing preventive measures. The Mumbai incident adds to recent airline-related controversies, including an Air India flight's 17-hour delay and a SpiceJet passenger locked in a toilet for the entire flight. Rising passenger frustration leads to regrettable incidents, such as an IndiGo pilot being attacked during a delay announcement.

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(Inputs from agencies)