Disciplinary Action Takes Flight: Army Officer Banned for Five Years After Airport Assault

In a decisive move underscoring the strict stance against unruly passenger behavior, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a stringent five-year no-fly ban on an Indian Army officer, Lieutenant Colonel Kartik Gusain. This significant action comes as a direct consequence of an incident that transpired at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in March 2023, where Gusain was involved in the assault of a SpiceJet ground staff member.

The incident, which garnered considerable attention, reportedly began even before the flight departed.

According to official reports, Lt Col. Gusain, who was scheduled to travel from Bagdogra to Delhi, was initially denied boarding by SpiceJet staff due to his visibly inebriated state. Despite the initial refusal, the airline staff, in an act of goodwill, eventually allowed him to board the flight. However, the situation escalated dramatically upon the aircraft's arrival at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).

Upon deboarding in Delhi, Lt Col.

Gusain allegedly confronted the same SpiceJet ground staff member who had handled his check-in and boarding process in Bagdogra. Eyewitnesses and subsequent investigations revealed that the officer physically assaulted the staffer, slapping him and issuing threats. This unprovoked attack on an airline employee performing their duties prompted immediate action from the airline and regulatory bodies.

While SpiceJet had initially taken a preliminary step by placing Lt Col.

Gusain on their internal no-fly list for a period of 15 days, the DGCA deemed the offense severe enough to warrant a much longer ban. The aviation regulator's decision for a five-year prohibition reflects the gravity of the assault and aims to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated in the Indian aviation sector.

This duration signifies a significant deterrent, impacting the officer's ability to travel by air for an extended period.

Beyond the civil aviation penalties, the Indian Army has also initiated its own internal disciplinary proceedings. A Court of Inquiry has been constituted to thoroughly investigate the matter and determine appropriate action under military law.

This dual approach from both civil and military authorities highlights the serious nature of the transgression and the commitment to accountability from all involved parties.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by airline personnel and the importance of maintaining decorum and respect at airports and during flights.

The DGCA's swift and firm response reaffirms its dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of both passengers and airline staff, upholding the sanctity of air travel rules and regulations across the country.