The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has sought a response from Air India, its pilot, and crew regarding the incident involving Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who slammed the airline after he was allotted a broken seat during his flight AI436 during his journey from Bhopal to Delhi.
He expressed disappointment that the airline had not improved its management and how his expectations turned out to be misconception. “Isn’t this cheating the passengers?” Chouhan asked.
The DGCA has asked for a reply within a day. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has spoken to Chouhan regarding his “uncomfortable” flight experience with Air India and assured him of prompt action He expressed disappointment that the airline had not improved its management and how his expectations turned out to be misconception. “Isn’t this cheating the passengers?” Chouhan asked.
The airline has apologised for the “inconvenience” caused to the Minister and said it was looking into the matter.
The minister further mentioned that the issue was not limited to just his seat. “There are several such seats on the aircraft,” he added. Despite fellow passengers offering to swap seats, Chouhan declined, stating, “Why should I cause discomfort to another traveller? I decided to complete my journey in the same seat.”
He urged Air India to take corrective action to prevent such issues for future travellers to which Air India replied on X, “Dear Sir, we apologize for the inconvenience caused. Please be rest assured that we are looking into this matter carefully to prevent any such occurrences in the future. We would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you, kindly DM us a convenient time to connect”.
