SpiceJet passenger alleges assault by Air India Express pilot at Delhi airport; airline initiates probe
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New Delhi: A chaotic scene unfolded at Delhi Airport’s Terminal 1 after a passenger alleged he was physically assaulted by an off-duty Air India Express pilot following a dispute over a queue. The incident, which left the passenger bloodied and his family traumatized, has sparked widespread outrage on social media.
The passenger, identified as Ankit Dewan, claimed the assault occurred while he was travelling with his family, including a seven-year-old daughter and a four-month-old infant.
According to Dewan, airport security staff had directed his family to a staff security check-in lane to accommodate their baby stroller. While in line, Dewan observed several airline staff members cutting ahead of him. When he raised an objection, the pilot, identified by Dewan as Captain Virender, allegedly reacted aggressively.
In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Dewan detailed the altercation. He alleged that the pilot verbally abused him, calling him "anpadh" (uneducated) and mocking his ability to read signage. The verbal spat quickly escalated into physical violence. Dewan shared photographs showing blood on his own face and bloodstains on the pilot’s shirt, which he claimed resulted from the assault.
"My seven-year-old daughter has been left traumatized by witnessing this," Dewan stated.
Dewan further alleged that authorities at the scene pressured him into signing a letter stating he would not pursue the matter. He claimed he was told that refusing to sign would lead to him missing his flight and forfeiting holiday bookings worth Rs 1.2 lakh.
He has since tagged the Delhi Police on social media, questioning why he could not file a formal complaint upon his return and expressing concern over the preservation of CCTV footage.
Air India Express issued a statement responding to the viral allegations. The airline clarified that the pilot was travelling as a passenger on another carrier at the time but confirmed that he has been removed from flight duties pending an internal investigation.
"We unequivocally condemn such behaviour," the airline stated. "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."
