**Air India Express to Investigate Assault Incident Involving Pilot**
Air India Express is set to establish an external committee next week to investigate an incident involving one of its off-duty pilots who allegedly assaulted a passenger at Delhi Airport on Friday. Following the altercation, the airline, owned by the Tata Group, promptly suspended the pilot and issued a show cause notice requesting an explanation for his actions. The inquiry will be conducted under labor laws, as pilots are classified as workmen.
The incident took place at Terminal 1 of the Delhi airport, where the passenger, Ankit Dewan, shared his experience on social media, posting a photo that showed blood on his face after the confrontation. He also included an image of the pilot, Virender Sejwal.
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Civil Aviation expressed serious concern and directed the airline to ground the pilot immediately. A formal inquiry has been initiated, with detailed reports requested from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Air India Express released a statement acknowledging the incident, confirming that the employee involved was traveling as a passenger on a different airline and had an altercation with another passenger. The airline condemned the behavior and stated that the employee has been removed from official duties pending the investigation. They also indicated that appropriate disciplinary action would follow based on the inquiry’s findings. Additionally, Air India Express officials have reached out to the affected passenger.
In summary, Air India Express is taking significant steps to address the incident involving its pilot, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining professional conduct among its employees.
**FAQ**
**What actions is Air India Express taking regarding the pilot’s assault incident?**
Air India Express is forming an external committee to investigate the incident, has suspended the pilot involved, and is conducting a formal inquiry under labor laws.
