Air India grounded two of its male pilots after they invited a female pilot friend inside the cockpit while operating a Delhi-Leh flight on June 3, 2023.

According to reports, the Air India management after receiving a complaint from the cabin crew regarding an unauthorized female passenger entering the cockpit of the AI-445 aircraft immediately took action against the pilot and the co-pilot.

"A female friend of AI-445 pilot entered the cockpit without following rules, both pilots have been grounded/off-roster by Air India," a top Air India official told news agency ANI.

Reportedly, the female friend is an Indian Air Force pilot. However, a non-crew member is prohibited from entering the cockpit.

Responding to the incident, the Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said, "DGCA is aware of the issue and necessary action is being taken in the matter in accordance with the procedures." "Air India formed a committee for the detailed investigations," an official told news agency ANI.

While an Air India Spokesperson as reported by TOI, said, "Air India has a Just Culture approach to all safety related events and has a zero tolerance for deliberate breaches of regulations. Such breaches are dealt with on a serious basis and sanctions will be imposed on those who are in breach of the regulations."

Earlier, in February, 2023, a similar case had taken place where the Air India pilots had invited a friend into the cockpit while operating a Dubai-Delhi flight.

Following a probe, the DGCA had suspended their flying licenses for three months and fined Air India Rs 30 lakh for not taking prompt action.

(Source-NDTV)