Delhi Police have formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) against an unidentified pilot of Air India Express in connection with allegations of physical assault on a passenger. The incident reportedly occurred at the aircraft's boarding area, leading to the initiation of a criminal investigation under applicable provisions of the law. Authorities confirmed that the FIR was lodged promptly following the passenger's formal complaint, marking the beginning of a detailed probe into the circumstances surrounding the event.
The complaint describes the pilot allegedly slapping the passenger during a confrontation at the gate or entry point of the aircraft, prior to or during the boarding procedure on a domestic flight. Relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code related to voluntary causing hurt, assault, and criminal intimidation have been invoked, depending on the specifics outlined in the statement. Investigators are expected to examine airport surveillance footage, witness accounts, and statements from crew members to corroborate the allegations.
Air India Express has issued an official acknowledgment of the reported incident, confirming that a thorough internal investigation is actively in progress to ascertain the sequence of events and responsibilities involved. The airline reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring passenger safety and welfare, while pledging full cooperation with Delhi Police and any regulatory authorities overseeing the matter. Standard protocols for such incidents include potential grounding of the involved crew pending outcome.
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Reports indicate that the passenger sustained minor physical injuries, primarily redness or swelling consistent with the alleged slap, though a comprehensive medical examination is awaited to document the extent formally as evidence. The flight operated on a routine domestic sector within India, with the altercation taking place in the secured airport environment, raising questions about adherence to professional conduct standards in high-stress operational settings.
This case draws attention to broader issues concerning crew-passenger dynamics in the aviation sector, potentially prompting enhanced training modules on conflict de-escalation and behavioral protocols. Regulatory bodies such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are likely to scrutinize the findings for any violations of safety or service guidelines, which could influence future policy frameworks aimed at preventing similar occurrences and upholding industry standards.
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