Air India express pilot arrested after alleged assault on passenger, later released on bail

An off-duty Air India Express pilot, Captain Virendra Sejwal, was taken into custody following an alleged argument with a passenger at Indira Gandhi International Airport, according to reports. He was reportedly released on bail shortly after as the charges filed against him were bailable. 

According to complainant Ankit Dewan, he, his wife, their children, and a four year old infant in a stroller were directed by airport staff to use a security lane meant for airline personnel to ease their movement. Dewan alleged that while standing in the queue, several staff members began cutting ahead of him including Captain Sejwal.

When he objected, he claims Captain Sejwal used derogatory language, leading to a heated verbal exchange which escalated into a physical assault, leaving him injured. He later shared images on social media, claiming the blood visible on the pilot’s shirt was his. He also stated that he was pressured to write a statement agreeing not to pursue the matter further.

Delhi Police said the matter came to light through a social media post and that appropriate legal action would be taken once a formal complaint was submitted.

Officials confirmed that CCTV footage from multiple cameras at Terminal 1 was being examined and statements from witnesses had been recorded as part of the ongoing probe.

Meanwhile, Air India Express had issued a statement condemning the incident. The airline said the employee involved had been removed from official duties with immediate effect, pending an internal investigation. The airline clarified that the pilot was travelling as a passenger on another carrier at the time, and was not on duty.

Air India Express added that it maintained the highest standards of conduct and professionalism and will take appropriate disciplinary action based on the findings of the inquiry.