In a distressing incident, a male passenger aboard an Air India flight from Goa to Delhi physically assaulted a crew member on Monday. Air India promptly handed over the unruly passenger to security personnel upon landing at Delhi airport, as stated by the airline.
Recent months have witnessed a surge in incidents of unruly behavior by passengers onboard aircraft, and the latest occurrence took place on flight AI882 from Goa to Delhi.
According to an Air India spokesperson, “The said passenger verbally abused the crew members and then went on to physically assault one of them on board. On landing at Delhi airport, the passenger continued with the unprovoked, aggressive behavior and was handed over to the security personnel. We have also reported the incident to the regulator.” Detailed information about the incident is yet to be obtained.
Emphasizing the utmost importance of crew and passenger safety, the spokesperson expressed strong condemnation of the unruly behavior, affirming full support for the affected crew members.
Earlier this month, Air India imposed a two-year flying ban on an individual who had caused physical harm to two female cabin crew members during a Delhi-London flight on April 10.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has established regulations wherein unruly air passengers can face flying bans of varying durations. The regulations classify unruly behavior into three levels.
Level 1 encompasses acts like physical gestures, verbal harassment, and unruly inebriation.
Level 2 includes physically abusive behavior such as pushing, kicking, or sexual harassment.
Level 3 pertains to life-threatening conduct like damaging aircraft operating systems, engaging in physical violence such as choking, or committing murderous assault.
Based on the level of unruly behavior displayed, an internal committee established by the respective airline determines the duration of the flying ban imposed on the unruly passenger.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for stringent measures to ensure the safety and security of both crew members and passengers. Air India stands firmly against any form of unruly behavior and remains committed to upholding safety standards in the aviation industry.
