BENGALURU- A 36-year-old doctor was removed from an Air India Express (IX) flight at Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) after allegedly threatening to bring down the aircraft. The flight, which was bound for Surat, Gujarat (STV), was delayed due to the disruption caused onboard.
Authorities have registered a formal case against the individual, identified as Dr. Vyas Hiral Mohanbhai, following the incident that unfolded on Tuesday afternoon.
The Indian Express reported that the situation escalated when the doctor became verbally aggressive and made alarming statements after a disagreement over her cabin baggage.
Photo: avgeekwithlens/ Harsh TekriwalAir India Express Passenger Removed
The incident occurred around 2:45 PM when Dr. Mohanbhai boarded the Air India Express flight and asked the cabin crew to retrieve her hand baggage placed in the front row and carry it to her assigned seat at 20F.
When crew members questioned the improper stowage, she reportedly reacted with agitation and hostility.
According to airline officials, the disturbance intensified as Dr. Mohanbhai allegedly began shouting threats, including a claim that she would bring down the aircraft.
The crew immediately informed the cockpit, prompting the captain to attempt a de-escalation. However, her continued disruptive behavior left the crew with no choice but to remove her from the aircraft before departure.
The case has been filed by the Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL) police, citing multiple legal provisions. These include:
- Section 351(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal intimidation,
- Section 353(1)(b) for statements intended to incite public fear, and
- Section 3(1)(a) of the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, which criminalizes any conduct endangering the safety of aircraft.
The matter remains under active investigation, with further details expected as legal proceedings continue.
Photo: Siddh Dhuri, Compounded by Aviation A2ZAir India Challenges
The disruption follows closely on the heels of a larger tragedy involving Air India (AI). Flight AI171, en route to London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport (AMD), resulting in the deaths of 241 passengers and approximately 30 people on the ground.
In the wake of this disaster, Air India has announced widespread operational changes. Between June 21 and July 15, the airline will suspend three international routes and reduce frequencies on 16 others, affecting connections to North America, Europe, Australia, and the Far East.
These adjustments reflect a broader reassessment of safety and resource allocation across the network.
Photo: Air India ExpressAirline and Passenger Safety
This incident underscores growing concerns over passenger behavior and aviation safety, particularly at a time when airlines are grappling with the aftermath of catastrophic events.
Aviation authorities and carriers continue to stress the importance of onboard discipline and adherence to security protocols.
As the investigation progresses, the industry will be watching closely for the outcomes of legal action taken under the newly implemented provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and aviation safety laws.
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