Air India Cockpit Incident: Airline Fined ₹30 Lakhs By DGCA; Pilot’s Licence Suspended

by Shreya Rathod
Air India Cockpit Incident: Airline Fined ₹30 Lakhs By DGCA; Pilot’s Licence Suspended

In February, an incident took place in an Air India flight. The captain asked his friend to join him in the cockpit when the plane was in the air. In addition, he requested that food and beverages be sent to his friend in the cockpit by the cabin crew. Here’s everything you need to know about the Air India Cockpit incident.

DGCA’s Action Against Air India For The Cockpit Incident

air india cockpit
Credits: Canva

A fine of Rs 30 lakh was issued by the aviation regulator DGCA on Friday for failing to resolve a “safety sensitive issue” involving the event on February 27. According to the report by The Economic Times, the pilot allowed a female companion to sit in the captain’s seat during a flight from Dubai to Delhi. In addition, the authority said in a statement that the pilot whose licence was used to fly the plane had his or her licence banned for three months.

DGCA has taken the following actions in light of the findings of its investigation:

  • The pilot’s licence has been revoked for three years for misuse of his authority. 
  • The Copilot has received a warning for failing to take decisive action to stop the infraction.
  • Air India has been ordered to take administrative measures against the on-duty staff and passengers, including removing them from all managerial roles within the company for a predetermined amount of time.

Also Read: Pet Cat Goes Missing At Delhi Airport. The Owner, An Air India Passenger Blames The Airline

Details Of The Complaints

air india cockpit
Credits: Wikimedia

According to the complaint, the pilot of Air India aircraft AI-915 requested that the cabin staff create a “welcoming, warm and comfortable” “living room” atmosphere for his female acquaintance.

Moreover, the irate pilot “made sexist remarks during the return flight” and should be evaluated for mental health issues because he posed a danger to other passengers.

According to the air hostess, the captain instructed her to go get some pillows from the bunk so she (the lady) could feel comfortable. The pilot instructed the crew to make the cockpit feel warm, inviting, and comfortable as if he were preparing his living room for a woman friend. Additionally, she asked her to serve her drinks and snacks.

Also Read: Air India Offers A Fee Waiver On Rescheduling Or Cancellation Of Flights To & From Imphal

Currently, DGCA has just issued a fine. 

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia