A tense altercation at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi has drawn public attention after a SpiceJet passenger alleged that he was physically attacked by an Air India Express pilot inside Terminal 1. The airline has confirmed the incident and said the staff member involved has been taken off duty until investigations are completed.

The complainant, Ankit Dewan, said the incident took place while he was travelling with his family, including his infant daughter who was being pushed in a stroller. According to Dewan, airport personnel directed his family to pass through a special security channel typically used by staff and passengers requiring assistance.

Dewan alleged that several individuals began bypassing the queue at the same entry point. When he objected, a man later identified as Captain Virender—an Air India Express pilot who was also present in the area—reportedly confronted him. Dewan claimed the pilot made insulting remarks and questioned his ability to read signage that marked the entry as reserved for staff.

What began as a verbal exchange soon intensified, Dewan alleged. He claimed that the argument escalated into physical violence, during which he was assaulted and suffered visible injuries. Dewan later shared images on social media showing bloodstains on the pilot’s shirt, alleging they were the result of the attack.

The passenger further said the incident deeply affected his family, stating that the confrontation ruined their planned vacation and left his young child distressed after witnessing the episode.

Responding to the allegations, Air India Express released a statement confirming that one of its employees was involved in an altercation at Delhi Airport while travelling as a passenger on another airline. The airline expressed regret over the incident and said the individual has been relieved from operational duties with immediate effect.

The carrier said it strongly disapproved of such conduct and assured that disciplinary action would be taken following a detailed internal investigation. It also stated that it would cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure the matter is examined fairly and thoroughly.