Mumbai-Bound Air India Express Passenger’s Pistol Fires During Varanasi Airport Security Check, 2 Injured

Varanasi: Two AAICLAS screeners were injured after a passenger's licensed pistol accidentally discharged during a weapons check at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport on Sunday morning, August 16, 2026. The passenger was travelling with his wife on Air India Express flight IX-1810 to Mumbai when the incident occurred at around 9:30 a.m.

Round Fired During Weapons Check

According to Varanasi Airport Director, the passenger had declared his weapons before boarding the flight. During the mandatory weapons check, a round was fired from the pistol, injuring two AAICLAS (AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services) screeners.

Both injured staffers were immediately taken to New Laxmi Trauma Centre for treatment. Local police were informed and an investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the firing.

Passenger Bound For Mumbai

Reports identified the passenger as around 55-year-old Kamlesh Rai, a resident of Azamgarh, who was travelling with his wife to Mumbai.

According to The Hindu, the weapon inspection involved verification of the firearm, relevant documents and ammunition. India Today reported that the bullet first hit the ground before striking the two staffers.

One of the injured employees, a woman, reportedly sustained an injury to her thigh or leg, while a male screener suffered an injury to his hand or thumb.

Investigation Underway

The passenger was detained and questioned as authorities began examining how the firearm discharged during the inspection. Airport Director Puneet Gupta confirmed that police had been informed and that an investigation was underway, according to The Indian Express.

While initial reports have described the firing as accidental, officials are examining the sequence of events and the procedures followed during the weapons check. Further details are awaited.