The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Mumbai): The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has enforced a fine of Rs 30 lakh against Air India following an event where an 80-year-old passenger suffered a collapse and subsequently passed away. This incident occurred while the passenger was moving from the aircraft to the terminal at Mumbai Airport, exacerbated by the absence of wheelchair assistance.
On February 12, the tragedy unfolded when the senior citizen, journeying from New York to Mumbai, found himself in a dire situation. Despite requesting assistance, he was advised to wait due to a shortage of wheelchairs. The passenger’s spouse was accorded a wheelchair, and while waiting for another, the elderly gentleman decided to proceed to the terminal on foot.
Air India, in a statement, acknowledged the situation, explaining the high demand for wheelchairs at the time and their request for the passenger to await his turn. Unfortunately, the passenger fell ill en route to immigration, alongside his wife.
The DGCA’s imposition of the fine underscores the regulatory body’s stance on the necessity for airlines to prioritize passenger assistance and safety. The penalty reflects the seriousness of Air India’s failure to adequately cater to the needs of an elderly passenger requiring assistance.
Moreover, the aviation regulator criticized Air India for its lack of transparency regarding disciplinary actions against the employees involved and for not presenting any preventive measures to avert similar incidents in the future. Subsequently, a show cause notice was dispatched to Air India, with a response from the airline received by February 20.
In addition to the fine, the DGCA has circulated an advisory to all airlines, emphasizing the importance of providing sufficient wheelchairs to passengers in need, to facilitate their movement to and from the aircraft, thereby ensuring a safer and more accessible travel experience for everyone.