A major controversy has erupted at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport involving an Air India Express pilot and a passenger. The incident, which allegedly escalated to physical assault, has prompted the airline to take swift disciplinary action.
Altercation at the Security Check
The conflict occurred on December 19, 2025. According to the complainant, a passenger named Dewan, he was travelling with a young baby. Dewan alleges that the pilot, identified as Captain Sejwal, cut the queue at the security check area. When Dewan called out this behaviour, it reportedly led to a heated argument between the two men.
The situation is said to have intensified rapidly. Dewan claims that the verbal confrontation turned physical, with the pilot allegedly assaulting him. This serious accusation, involving a crew member of a national carrier, immediately drew significant attention.
Airline's Immediate Response
In reaction to the formal complaint and the ensuing media reports, Air India Express acted promptly. The airline confirmed that it has removed Captain Sejwal from all official flying duties with immediate effect. This step is a standard procedural move to allow for an unbiased and thorough internal investigation into the matter.
The airline has acknowledged the incident and is likely examining CCTV footage and statements from witnesses present at the security checkpoint. The focus is on determining the exact sequence of events that transpired between the pilot and the passenger.
Public Reaction and Lingering Questions
The incident has sparked a debate on social media and among aviation observers. A key point of discussion, highlighted by a user on platform X (formerly Twitter), questions why the pilot was using a specific security channel. User @Starcommander10 asked, "If he was travelling from another airline, shouldn't he use the normal security check?"
This query touches on the protocols for crew members from different airlines using airport facilities. The broader conversation revolves around the expected conduct of airline staff, especially when off-duty, and the rights of passengers.
The outcome of the airline's investigation will be crucial. It will determine whether further disciplinary measures are warranted and could have implications for the pilot's future with the carrier. For now, the incident serves as a reminder of the tensions that can arise in busy airport environments and the high standards of behaviour expected from aviation professionals.
