(image source : amitdewan
In a disturbing incident that has drawn widespread attention online and from aviation authorities, an off-duty Air India Express pilot has been arrested in connection with the alleged assault passenger at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi.
What Happened on December 19
According to police and multiple media reports, the incident occurred on December 19, 2025, near the Terminal-1 security area at IGI Airport. The passenger, Ankit Dewan, was travelling with his family including his seven-year-old daughter and a four-month-old baby, when the trouble began.
Dewan says the situation arose after he and his family were asked to use the staff security lane because of the baby stroller. When he raised a question about passengers, including an Air India Express pilot, seemingly bypassing the queue, an argument started. He alleges that the pilot, identified as Captain Virender Sejwal, became physical during the dispute and assaulted him, leaving him with injuries and blood on his face. Dewan later shared photos of his bleeding face and described how the altercation left his daughter traumatised.
Medical and Legal Response
Following the alleged attack, Dewan sought medical attention. A CT scan reportedly showed a displaced fracture to his left nasal bone, and he filed a complaint with Delhi Police. An FIR was registered under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including voluntarily causing hurt. Delhi Police subsequently collected CCTV footage and recorded witness statements as part of their investigation.
Arrest and Airline Action
After days of investigation, police arrested the off-duty pilot in late December. In response, Air India Express had earlier grounded and suspended Captain Sejwal pending inquiry, and expressed regret over the incident, stating that such conduct is unacceptable. According to official statements, the airline is cooperating with authorities as investigations continue.
Wider Reactions and Impact
The case sparked social media outrage, prompting the Ministry of Civil Aviation to order an official probe into how the situation unfolded at a major international airport and why the dispute escalated so quickly. Passengers, aviation professionals, and public safety advocates have raised concerns about staff conduct, airport crowd management, and the responsibilities of airline personnel even when off-duty.
