A pilot of an Air India flight, operating from Dubai to Delhi, had allowed a female friend in the cockpit on February 27 violating DGCA safety norms. The agency said a probe is being conducted presently.
"A pilot of an Air India flight, operating from Dubai to Delhi, allowed a female friend in the cockpit, on February 27, violating DGCA safety norms. Probe being conducted," news agency ANI tweeted.
"We have taken serious note of the reported incident and investigations are underway in Air India. We have also reported the matter to the DGCA and are cooperating with their investigations. We have zero tolerance in aspects related to the safety and well-being of our passengers and will take requisite action," Air India said in a statement.
According to a report in Hindustan Times, the complaint was made by a member of the cabin crew. The pilot is alleged to have asked the crew to ensure the cockpit appeared welcoming and had requested that his friend, who was travelling in economy, be served food from business class.
Air India has confirmed that it received the complaint on March 3 and has formed a committee to investigate the allegations. The airline has declined to comment on the matter.
DGCA summons flight crew for questioning
The DGCA, India's aviation regulator, has summoned the flight crew for questioning. The complaint stated that the pilot had wanted the crew to upgrade his female friend to business class but they reported there were no seats available.
The pilot then asked the crew to invite her to the cockpit where she spent over an hour. According to the complainant, the pilot requested that the cockpit appear "welcoming, warm and comfortable, as though he was preparing his living room for a lady friend".
DCGA regulation for civilians entering cockpit
The DGCA's Civil Aviation Regulation states that only people who have completed breath analyser tests are allowed to enter the cockpit. The complainant also alleged that the pilot had been rude and made sexist remarks towards her on the return flight.
Crew suggested pilot's behaviour requires psychiatric evaluation
She suggested that the pilot's behaviour required a psychiatric evaluation at an independent Air Force Medical testing station through the DGCA as he posed a risk to passenger safety. The regulator is investigating the technical and safety aspects of the case.
This incident highlights the importance of following aviation safety regulations and the consequences of violating them. It is crucial for airlines to uphold safety standards and ensure the wellbeing of passengers and crew.
