The Union government has ordered a formal probe into an alleged assault involving an Air India Express pilot and a passenger at Delhi airport’s Terminal 1, raising serious concerns over airport security, airline conduct and passenger safety
Pilot grounded, inquiry ordered
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said it has taken “serious cognisance” of the incident and directed Air India Express to ground the pilot with immediate effect. A detailed inquiry has been ordered, with reports sought from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
The incident occurred on Friday at Terminal 1, where Captain Virender Sejwal allegedly assaulted passenger Ankit Dewan following a heated argument near the security check-in area. The pilot was reportedly “dead heading” on an IndiGo flight to Bengaluru to operate another service, while Dewan was travelling with his family on SpiceJet.
Dispute at staff entry gate
According to CISF sources, the altercation began when Dewan, travelling with children including a four-month-old baby in a stroller, was directed to use the staff entry gate. Captain Sejwal, being airline crew, was moving ahead in the queue, which Dewan allegedly questioned in an aggressive tone.
“When the passenger did not stop despite warnings, the pilot hit him. CISF personnel intervened and separated them,” a source said. Dewan was reportedly asked if he wished to file a police complaint but declined in writing, after which both individuals continued their journeys.
Passenger alleges pressure, trauma
However, Dewan later shared a detailed account on social media, alleging that the pilot physically assaulted him, leaving him bleeding and traumatising his seven-year-old daughter who witnessed the incident. He said he was forced to write a letter stating he would not pursue the matter to avoid missing his flight and losing holiday bookings worth ₹1.2 lakh.
“I had to see a doctor. My daughter is still scared,” Dewan wrote, questioning how a pilot who could not control his temper could be entrusted with passenger lives.
Questions over airport security
The Ministry has also sought explanations on why CISF personnel posted at the entrance failed to intervene before the situation escalated. The role of airport management and the mixing of staff and passenger entry points, particularly for families with infants, is also under scrutiny.
An Air India Express spokesperson said the airline “unequivocally condemns such behaviour” and confirmed that the pilot has been removed from duties pending investigation. No police complaint has been registered so far.