Aviation

Punching IndiGo Pilot Incident: These are Possible Actions Taken by Authorities Against Passenger

A disturbing incident unfolded on an IndiGo flight when a passenger, identified as Sahil Kataria, physically assaulted the aircraft’s pilot during an announcement about delays.

The incident occurred on flight 6E-2175 from Delhi to Goa, which experienced significant delays due to fog on a Sunday. Following the assault, the pilot promptly filed a complaint against Sahil Kataria, prompting the airline to initiate the process of filing an official case. The airline quickly removed the unruly passenger from the aircraft, handing him over to the authorities for further action.

A passenger punched an Indigo capt in the aircraft as he was making delay announcement. The guy ran up from the last row and punched the new Capt who replaced the previous crew who crossed FDTL. Unbelievable ! @DGCAIndia @MoCA_GoI pic.twitter.com/SkdlpWbaDd— Capt_Ck (@Capt_Ck) January 14, 2024

In response to this disturbing incident, the Indian civil aviation regulator, @DGCAIndia, outlined two potential levels of unruly behavior on an aircraft as depicted in the video. These levels include Level 2, characterized by physically abusive actions such as pushing, kicking, hitting, or inappropriate touching, and Level 3, involving life-threatening behavior like damage to aircraft operating systems or physical violence endangering lives.

The Civil Aviation Requirements mandate a series of steps to address such incidents. First, the Commander of the aircraft is required to file an FIR. Then, the incident must be reported to various authorities, including airline security officials, the SHO of the airport police station, CISF, BCAS, and the airport operator. Subsequently, the airline is obligated to establish an Internal Committee within 30 days to determine the level of unruly behavior exhibited by the passenger.

During the committee’s deliberation period, the airline has the authority to temporarily ban the unruly passenger from flying, not exceeding 30 days. Simultaneously, the passenger is placed on a No Fly List maintained by the DGCA, and this information is shared with other airlines. The No Fly List empowers other airlines to make decisions regarding the banned passenger, with Level 2 offenses resulting in a ban of up to six months, and Level 3 offenses warranting a minimum ban of 2 years or more, without a set limit.

The comprehensive regulatory framework underscores the gravity of such incidents and emphasizes the collective efforts of aviation authorities to ensure the safety and security of air travel.

Aviation

Boeing Offers 25% Pay Increase & Promise to Build Next Plane in Seattle

Boeing is seeking to avert a potential strike with a new tentative agreement that promises to build the next-generation aircraft in the Puget Sound region, Washington.

The agreement, announced on September 8, 2024, follows negotiations between Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 751. The deal, which will be put to a vote by over 33,000 IAM members in Washington and Portland, includes several key provisions aimed at improving workers’ conditions.

Set to be voted on September 12, 2024, the contract offers a substantial 25% wage increase, enhanced retirement benefits, better health coverage, and increased paid time off. Additionally, the contract guarantees that mcas boeing next new aircraft will be manufactured in Seattle, underscoring the company’s commitment to the region.

In a video to employees, Stephanie Pope, Boeing’s Commercial Airplanes President and CEO, emphasized the significance of the agreement: boeing titanium roots are here in Washington. It is where generations of workers have built incredible airplanes that connect the world. And it’s why we’re excited that, as part of the contract, our team in the Puget Sound region will build Boeing’s next new airplane.”

The agreement comes as a potential strike loomed on September 13. If the union members reject the proposal, a walkout could commence on Friday morning. While the proposed deal does not meet all of the union’s demands, such as a 40% wage increase or a restoration of the traditional pension plan, it includes notable “quality of life” enhancements, including 12 weeks of paid parental leave.

The union has acknowledged the concessions made in negotiations but views the proposal as a significant improvement. “Negotiations are a give and take, and although there was no way to achieve success on every single item, we can honestly say that this proposal is the best contract we’ve negotiated in our history,” the union’s message stated.

Workers are expected to vote on the proposal on Thursday, and if approved, the agreement will include incentives such as a one-time $3,000 bonus. boeing777x, The contract also ensures that Boeing will continue its legacy in the Puget Sound region by building its next aircraft there, further strengthening the company’s bond with the area.