Aviation Ministry Issues Notices to IndiGo and Mumbai Airport Over Tarmac Dining Incident
The Minister of Civil Aviation has issued show cause notices to IndiGo and Mumbai Airport following a viral video depicting passengers eating on the tarmac at Mumbai Airport.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia conducted a midnight meeting with ministry officials, and in the early hours of Tuesday, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued notices to both entities.
The ministry criticized IndiGo and Mumbai Airport for not proactively anticipating the situation and making appropriate facilitation arrangements for passengers.
The notice to IndiGo is for violating aviation security procedures in the case of Flight no. 6E 2195, which landed at Mumbai Airport on January 14, 2024. IndiGo allowed passengers to disembark onto the apron and then board another flight without following security screening procedures.
Mumbai Airport received a notice for failing to report the incident and not forewarning the ASG of Mumbai. Both entities must respond by January 16, 2024, or face potential enforcement actions, including financial penalties.
The viral incident occurred due to extensive flight disruptions at Delhi airport caused by dense fog. The IndiGo flight, scheduled from Goa to Delhi, was diverted to Mumbai due to low visibility conditions. Passengers were stranded on the tarmac beside the aircraft, casually enjoying meals.
IndiGo issued an apology and stated that the diversion was due to low visibility conditions in Delhi. The airline assured an investigation into the incident and pledged to take necessary steps to prevent such occurrences in the future. However, the airline cited “operational reasons” beyond its control for the delays and disruptions, expressing regret for any inconvenience caused to passengers.
Social media platforms were flooded with videos and images showcasing the unusual scene of stranded passengers on the tarmac. The flight, scheduled to depart on Sunday morning, eventually landed in Mumbai on Monday morning after facing extensive delays.
The ministry’s response reflects concerns about the handling of the situation by IndiGo and Mumbai Airport, emphasizing the need to ensure passenger safety, security, and effective communication during such incidents.
