According to officials, the passenger was repeatedly instructed by the cabin crew to stop damaging the inner window pane, also known as a scratch pane. This thin, non-structural plastic layer is installed inside the aircraft cabin to protect the primary structural window layers from accidental damage. Despite multiple warnings, the passenger continued the act, showing disregard for crew instructions during the critical phase of the flight.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the incident and stated that the cockpit crew followed all standard operating procedures. After issuing repeated warnings to the passenger, the crew immediately informed airport security authorities upon landing at Delhi airport. The airline emphasized that the safety of passengers, crew members, and the aircraft remained fully uncompromised throughout the flight.
Officials further reported that the passenger displayed aggressive and dismissive behavior during the flight. However, upon being handed over to security personnel at Indira Gandhi International Airport, the individual began repeatedly apologizing for his conduct.
The Air India spokesperson reiterated the airline’s strict stance on passenger conduct, stating that it follows a zero-tolerance policy toward any behavior that may compromise safety and security onboard. In accordance with Civil Aviation Requirements, all incidents involving unruly behavior are referred to an internal committee. This committee is mandated to determine the classification of the passenger’s conduct and decide the duration of any potential flying ban, which may extend up to 30 days on a provisional basis pending final review.
Officials confirmed that the matter has been formally referred to the airline’s internal committee, which will assess whether the passenger should be categorized as unruly and determine further disciplinary action under applicable aviation regulations.
Following the initial incident, the passenger was detained overnight at the airport. At approximately 9:30 AM on June 8, he managed to escape from police escort in the Terminal 3 check-in area and ran toward the forecourt. However, personnel from the Quick Response Team of the Central Industrial Security Force promptly spotted and apprehended him before he could leave the secured zone. He was subsequently returned to police custody.
During the inquiry, the passenger’s parents informed authorities that he is a person with mental illness and requested that he be allowed to travel to Patna, his hometown, on a subsequent Air India flight. However, the airline declined the request, citing the ongoing investigation and procedural constraints.
After completion of necessary formalities, the passenger was released and handed over to his parents.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding in-flight passenger conduct, security compliance, and the enforcement of aviation safety protocols, particularly in cases involving behavioral disturbances during critical phases of flight operations.
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