Jet Airways' pilot 'couple' fights mid-air; pilot slaps female co-pilot
In a rather bizarre incident, passengers on a London-Mumbai Jet Airways flight witnessed a mid-air drama as the pilots flying the aircraft had a "violent argument". The captain reportedly slapped his female co-pilot; she left the cockpit. They have been grounded, and their pilot licenses were canceled. Reports claimed the duo was in a relationship and they fought over a personal issue. Here's more!
What exactly happened inside the cockpit?
On 1 January 2018, the nine-hour-long Jet Airways flight 9W 119 to Mumbai took off from London with 324 passengers on board. When the aircraft was flying over the Iran-Pakistan airspace, the pilot duo got into an argument. The pilot had slapped the co-pilot, after which she left the cockpit in tears. However, she went back inside after realizing the risk to guests.
Misunderstanding between cockpit crew: Jet Airways
Jet Airways' spokesperson stated: "A misunderstanding occurred between the cockpit crew of 9W119 London-Mumbai flight on January 1. However, the same was quickly resolved amicably and the flight with 324 guests, including two infants and 14 crew members, completed its journey in Mumbai safely."
Zero tolerance for any action compromising safety
The Jet Airways spokesperson stated that they had reported the matter to the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The regulator asked the airline to conduct an inquiry. Until it is concluded, the pilot duo has been "de-rostered". The spokesperson added, "Safety of guests, crew, and assets is of paramount importance...the airline has zero tolerance for any action of its employees that compromises safety."
Pilot violated flight safety norms
Sources said, "The male pilot came out...leaving the operations to the care of a cabin-crew (a violation of flight safety norms) and persuaded her to return." Jet Airways reportedly offered help to the co-pilot if she wants to take legal action against the pilot.
