Passenger Alleges Assault By Air India Express Pilot At Delhi Airport, Airline Acts | India News

A passenger has alleged that he was physically assaulted by an off-duty Air India Express pilot at Delhi airport’s Terminal 1. The airline later confirmed that the pilot has been removed from his duties pending an investigation.

The incident reportedly took place when the passenger, Ankit Dewan, said he and his family, including a four-month-old baby, were using a staff security lane as guided by airport staff. He claimed that the pilot, Captain Virender Sejwal, and other staff were cutting the queue. When Dewan called them out, a verbal argument broke out, after which he says the pilot physically assaulted him, leaving him injured.

Dewan also shared a photo showing blood on his shirt and said his seven-year-old daughter witnessed the assault and remains traumatized.

AIX Pilot, Capt. Vijender Sejwal pic.twitter.com/Ntp1pnDgdb — Ankit Dewan (@ankitdewan) December 19, 2025

Dewan said he was pressured to sign a letter stating he would not pursue the matter. He later tagged the Delhi Police on social media, questioning why he could not file a complaint immediately and expressing concern about the preservation of CCTV footage.

“I was forced to write a letter stating that I will not pursue this matter further … It was either write that letter, or miss my flight and throw the 1.2 lakhs holiday bookings down the drain. @DelhiPolice, why can’t I file a complaint after coming back? Must I sacrifice my money too, to seek justice? Will the CCTV footage disappear in the 2 days till I make it back to Delhi?” Dewan said.

Air India Express Statement

The airline said it “condemns such behavior” and confirmed that the employee has been removed from duty. It added that appropriate disciplinary action will follow the investigation.

@ankitdewan We profoundly regret this incident at Delhi Airport, involving one of our employees who was traveling as a passenger on another airline. We extend our heartfelt empathy for the distress it has caused, and strongly condemn such behaviour. The concerned employee has… — Air India Express (@AirIndiaX) December 19, 2025

In a post on “Assured this matter has our highest attention. We remain fully committed to provide due cooperation to law enforcement authorities to ensure a fair and thorough process.”