Nearly two months after an Air India pilot allowed a female friend into the cockpit during a Dubai-Delhi flight, aviation regulator DGCA has directed the airline to remove the entire crew till the probe is completed, a senior official said. According to the official. A cabin crew member of the flight lodged a complaint with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) alleging that the pilot had allowed a female friend into the cockpit. The incident is of 27 February.
On condition of anonymity, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) official said that though prima facie, the cabin crew has no role in the incident, the entire crew of the flight has been removed pending investigation.
The official said on Wednesday that there is an allegation, which is being investigated and the principles of natural justice will apply and the concerned pilot will also be given an opportunity to present his case.
The official also said that the pilot will remain grounded till the regulator takes a final decision on the matter.
While there was no immediate comment from Air India on the latest development, the airline said on April 21 that it has taken the reported incident seriously and investigation is underway.
Unauthorized persons are not allowed to enter the cockpit and any such entry may be in violation of the rules.