Bengaluru Doctor Threatens to Crash Air India Express Flight Over Baggage Dispute, Removed from Flight

An Air India Express flight from Bengaluru to Surat was delayed for nearly three hours after a passenger, identified as Dr. Vyas Hiral Mohanbhai, allegedly threatened to crash the plane following a dispute with the cabin crew over her baggage. The incident has raised serious concerns about passenger conduct and airline safety protocols.

Air India Express flight | Representative Image/PTI | News18

Incident Details: Baggage Dispute Turns Threatening

The trouble began shortly before the scheduled departure of flight IX2749 from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru at approximately 2:30 PM. Dr. Mohanbhai boarded the plane carrying two bags, leaving one hand-luggage at the front of the cabin while she took her assigned seat, 20F. When the cabin crew requested her to properly stow the bag in the overhead compartment near her seat, she refused to comply and insisted that the crew members carry her bag for her.

Tensions escalated as Dr. Mohanbhai grew agitated, raising her voice at the crew and fellow passengers who attempted to calm the situation. At the peak of the confrontation, she allegedly threatened, "Keep my bag or I'll crash the plane," a declaration that alarmed everyone on board and prompted immediate action from the pilot and crew.

Response and Security Measures

Upon hearing the threat, the flight crew quickly informed the airport’s Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel, who promptly intervened. Dr. Mohanbhai was escorted off the aircraft, and the flight was delayed for almost three hours as security protocols were enforced and the situation was brought under control. The pilot and airline staff ensured that all passengers remained safe, and the plane eventually departed once the threat had been neutralized.

Legal Actions and Charges

Following her removal from the aircraft, Dr. Mohanbhai was taken into police custody. She faces several charges under Indian law, including criminal intimidation and violations under the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act. Authorities have registered cases citing the seriousness of the threat she posed to the safety of the aircraft and its passengers.

Reports also indicate that Dr. Mohanbhai continued to exhibit aggressive behavior even after her arrest, using abusive language and resisting police efforts. The investigation is ongoing to determine her mental state and any underlying reasons behind her actions.

Background and Additional Context

Dr. Mohanbhai, an Ayurvedic practitioner residing in Shivanahalli near Yelahanka in Bengaluru, reportedly had ceased her medical practice and was traveling to Gujarat to visit family members. Her husband mentioned a history of disruptive behavior, though specifics have not been disclosed publicly.

This incident adds to a growing concern about unruly passenger behavior on flights and the challenges it poses to airline operations. It comes just days after the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 near Ahmedabad, which resulted in significant loss of life, further heightening sensitivities around flight safety in the country.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Aviation Safety and Passenger Conduct

The disturbing episode involving Dr. Mohanbhai underscores the critical importance of maintaining discipline and following safety procedures during air travel. While airlines and airport security forces have mechanisms to handle such threats, the increasing frequency of passenger disturbances calls for enhanced awareness and stricter enforcement of rules.

The quick response of the Air India Express crew and security personnel prevented a potential disaster, ensuring the safety of all onboard. Moving forward, airlines may need to consider additional training for crews in handling difficult passengers and revisit policies related to baggage handling and passenger conduct to avoid such incidents.

(Sources: Times of India, News18, Hindustan Times)