New Delhi, Dec 20: A SpiceJet passenger, Ankit Dewan, has alleged that he was assaulted by an Air India Express pilot at Indira Gandhi International Airport’s Terminal 1 following a dispute over alleged queue cutting. The incident, which Dewan claims occurred in front of his seven year old daughter, has gained widespread attention on social media.
Sharing a photograph of his bloodied face on X (formerly Twitter), Dewan raised concerns over not being able to file a complaint after returning from his trip. “Why can’t I file a complaint after coming back? Must I sacrifice my money too, to seek justice?” he posted, highlighting fears that CCTV footage might disappear before he could report the matter.
The Delhi Police stated that no formal complaint has yet been received. “Whenever a written complaint is received by the victim, appropriate legal action will be taken,” officials said.
Dewan claimed that airport staff had directed him and his family, including a four month old infant, to a security check lane usually meant for staff. During the queue, he alleged that some staff moved ahead, prompting a verbal argument with the pilot, identified as Capt. Virender, which escalated into physical assault. Dewan said he was left bleeding and was reportedly pressured to sign a letter agreeing not to pursue the matter, to avoid missing his flight and losing holiday bookings worth Rs 1.2 lakh.
Air India Express condemned the incident, stating that the pilot was travelling as a passenger on another airline and was not on official duty. The airline said the employee has been removed from duties pending investigation, and disciplinary action will follow based on inquiry findings. “Air India Express upholds the highest standards of conduct and professionalism,” the statement added.
The incident underscores growing concerns about passenger safety and conduct of airline personnel at major airports.