Kolkata, Aug 1 —A passenger on IndiGo flight 6E-138 from Mumbai to Kolkata was declared “unruly” and de-boarded after slapping a fellow traveller who was reportedly experiencing a panic attack mid-air.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, has drawn widespread condemnation after a video of the altercation surfaced online. In the clip, airline crew can be seen rushing to calm the distressed passenger while intervening to stop the assault. Another flyer is heard confronting the attacker for his behaviour.
“The passenger who slapped the distressed man was de-boarded after landing in Kolkata and declared unruly,” an IndiGo official confirmed to The Tribune. The airline is preparing to submit a detailed report to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Eyewitnesses said the victim was visibly anxious and required assistance from cabin crew. Instead of helping or waiting for staff to assist, the accused passenger resorted to violence.
The footage has triggered public outrage, with many questioning the lack of empathy shown by the aggressor.
Under Indian aviation norms, passengers declared “unruly” can face temporary suspension or lifetime bans depending on the severity of the misconduct.
As of now, IndiGo has not issued a formal statement beyond confirming action taken against the attacker.
