Indian aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a show cause notice to Air India and its CEO Campbell Wilson due to the airline’s failure in reporting an incident that took place in February 2023. The incident involved a pilot allowing a female friend to accompany him in the cockpit during the course of a flight.
The show cause notice was also issued to Air India's Head of Safety, Security, and Quality Functions, Henry Donohoe.
On February 27, a pilot allowed a female friend in the cockpit during a three-hour Dubai-Delhi flight. The friend, who was a passenger on the flight, remained in the cockpit for the entire flight time.
A cabin crew member of the flight alerted the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) after the flight concluded.
As per the statement of the flight crew: “The captain had asked to make the cockpit appear welcoming, warm and comfortable, as though he was preparing his living room for a lady friend. Prior to the flight, the pilot had also requested to upgrade his friend to business class.” However, this was denied as there were no vacant seats in the upgraded captain.
According to the DGCA, unauthorized people are not permitted to enter the cockpit while the flight is ongoing. Therefore, this incident is a violation of the norms.
“The pilot's actions were not only a breach of security but also could have caused a distraction in the cockpit. This could have compromised the safety of the flight and its passengers,” commented an official from DGCA. “The pilot could also face disciplinary action. This could be suspension or cancelation of his license, depending on what else the investigation may uncover.”
Air India executives have 15 days to respond to the show cause notices.