Passenger booked for smoking Beedi on mid-air in Akasa flight

A passenger from Delhi has been detained by the Goa police after allegedly smoking a BEEDI inside the aircraft lavatory during an Akasa Air flight from Delhi to Goa, triggering safety concerns among the crew and passengers.

The incident occurred on Saturday, March 7, aboard Akasa Air flight QP1625, which was travelling from Delhi to Goa. According to officials, the passenger—identified as Ashish—was found smoking inside the aircraft’s lavatory and was also discovered carrying a lighter, a restricted item on board commercial flights.

Cabin crew reportedly became aware of the situation after smoke was detected in the lavatory area. Aircraft lavatories are equipped with smoke detectors designed to alert the crew immediately if someone attempts to smoke during a flight.

Upon checking, the crew allegedly found the passenger smoking a hand-rolled beedi and confiscated the lighter. The situation was brought under control quickly, preventing any further safety risk during the journey. After the aircraft landed at Manohar International Airport in Goa, the passenger was handed over to local authorities.

Police confirmed on Sunday, March 8, that a formal case had been registered against him.

Officials said the passenger’s actions could have endangered the safety of the aircraft and everyone on board. Authorities are investigating how the lighter was brought onto the plane despite strict aviation security regulations.

The case has been registered under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita as well as the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act. These laws address acts that threaten the safety of aircraft, passengers, or crew members.

Airline and security officials emphasized that smoking on flights is strictly prohibited because it poses a potential fire hazard in the aircraft’s pressurised environment. While the crew’s prompt action prevented the incident from escalating, the case highlights the importance of strict compliance with aviation safety rules. Authorities say such incidents serve as a reminder that even minor violations—such as carrying prohibited items or smoking onboard—can have serious consequences for passenger safety.