Indian man charged with molesting Air hostess on Singapore Airlines flight faces 3 years of jail

A 36-year-old Indian national has been charged with molesting and harassing a flight attendant on board a Singapore Airlines flight, following an alleged mid-air incident last month, as per reports.

The accused, Akash Tiwari, was formally charged on Tuesday over the incident, which is said to have taken place on February 9.

As per reports, the incident began when the cabin crew member was serving Tiwari near his seat and he allegedly made inappropriate physical contact with her. Despite being told to stop, he is accused of following her to the galley area as the aircraft prepared for landing.

In the confined space of the galley, Tiwari allegedly cornered the air stewardess and continued to pursue her, causing distress. The woman reportedly raised her voice and left the area, but he is said to have followed her again into the aisle before returning to his seat after she alerted her supervisor.

Police said they were informed of the incident on the same day, and officers from the Airport Police Division conducted follow-up investigations. Tiwari was subsequently arrested upon the aircraft’s arrival at Changi Airport.

He also faces allegations of using threatening behaviour during the encounter.

A gag order has been imposed to protect the identity of the victim. Media reports said further details about the flight have not been disclosed to avoid revealing her identity.

When produced in court, Tiwari reportedly pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted of molestation, he could face up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, caning, or a combination of these penalties. For the additional charge of threatening behaviour and causing distress, he may face up to six months’ jail, a fine of up to S$5,000 (Aprox ₹ 3,62,741), or both.