Title: Air India Passenger Assaults Crew and Damages Lavatory Door on Toronto-Delhi Flight
A male passenger on an Air India flight from Toronto to Delhi on July 8 allegedly assaulted crew members and fellow passengers while also causing damage to the lavatory door, according to a statement from the airline. The Nepalese citizen was subsequently handed over to security agencies upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.
The incident occurred during flight AI188 on July 8, with the passenger displaying unacceptable aggression. The individual not only smoked in the lavatory but also damaged the lavatory door and physically assaulted both crew members and passengers. Fortunately, the injuries sustained by the victims were minor.
The Air India spokesperson stated that the passenger was repeatedly warned by the crew regarding his behavior but had to be restrained in his seat eventually. Subsequently, a case has been registered against the passenger under relevant sections of the law.
According to the filed report, the individual initially changed seats after take-off and began verbally abusing the economy class crew. After being warned, the passenger was found with a cigarette lighter inside the lavatory when the smoke alert went off.
The complaint further stated that when the cabin crew member approached the passenger, he pushed and verbally abused them before running back to his seat. He proceeded to break the lavatory door, prompting the crew member to inform the captain immediately. With the assistance of cabin crew member Punit Sharma and four other passengers, they attempted to restrain the unruly passenger following the airline’s standard operating procedures. However, due to their inability to control him, additional passengers were called upon to help successfully restrain him.
Upon reaching Delhi, the passenger was handed over to security agencies for further action in accordance with regulatory requirements. The matter has also been reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), as per Air India.
The IGI Airport police station has registered a case against the passenger under sections 323 (punishment for voluntarily causing hurt), 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation), and 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) of the Indian Penal Code and Aircraft Rules.
It is unfortunate to witness a rising number of incidents involving unruly behavior by passengers on flights in recent months. On June 24, another Air India flight from Mumbai to Delhi also faced a similar situation where a passenger behaved in an objectionable manner and was handed over to security personnel upon landing in Delhi.
Air India remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew. The airline has implemented strict protocols and regulations to handle such incidents and will continue to take necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure travel environment.
With the incident now under investigation by the relevant authorities, it serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to airline rules and treating fellow passengers and crew members with respect and dignity. Such incidents not only disrupt the travel experience but also pose a potential threat to the safety of everyone on board.
As air travel continues to recover and more passengers take to the skies, it is crucial for individuals to display responsible behavior and uphold the regulations set forth by airlines, ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey for all.
