IndiGo, Mumbai airport gets notice as video of flyers eating food on tarmac goes viral

Digital Desk:  The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) took swift action on Tuesday, issuing show-cause notices to IndiGo airline and Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) following a viral video depicting passengers sitting and eating on the tarmac amid flight delays.

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia convened a meeting with ministry officials to address the incident, leading to the issuance of notices. The Ministry criticized both IndiGo and MIAL for not being proactive in anticipating the situation and facilitating arrangements for passengers at the airport.

The incident unfolded when passengers disembarked from an IndiGo aircraft at Mumbai airport, sitting on the tarmac and even having food there after their diverted Goa-Delhi flight experienced a prolonged delay on January 14. The aircraft was allocated a remote bay instead of a Contact Stand, preventing passengers from accessing basic facilities like restrooms and refreshments.

In response, the Ministry expressed concern over the unfavorable and unacceptable experience faced by passengers, emphasizing that the flight operation lacked consideration for passenger convenience, security norms, and operational issues.

Both IndiGo and airport authorities were given until January 16 to respond to the show cause notices. IndiGo was specifically cited for violating Rule 51 of the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023, Aviation Security Order 02/2019, and a September 21, 2021 order. The airline allowed passengers from the diverted flight to disembark on the apron and subsequently board another flight without following security screening procedures.

The failure to report the incident to the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) further compounded the violations, according to the notice. IndiGo responded with a press statement, acknowledging the issue and pledging to conduct an internal inquiry while assuring compliance with the protocol in their official response.

Mumbai Airport, too, received a show-cause notice for violating Rule 51 of the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023, about the failure to report the incident involving Flight No. 6E 2195. The Ministry noted that the Airport Security Group (ASG) of Mumbai was not forewarned about the situation, adding another layer to the regulatory breaches.

The MoCA's prompt action underscores the importance of adherence to aviation security procedures and passenger welfare. As both IndiGo and Mumbai Airport prepare their responses, the incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for effective coordination and communication to prevent such disruptions and ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers.