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Mid-Air Chaos: SpiceJet Flight from Delhi to Mumbai Returns After Violent Brawl Between Women Passengers

New Delhi, July 21 – A routine SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Mumbai took a dramatic turn after an intense mid-air altercation between two female passengers forced the pilot to make an emergency turnaround. The incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), left passengers shocked and triggered a serious security response upon landing.

What Happened on Board?

Flight SG-8933, a scheduled domestic service from Delhi to Mumbai, had barely reached cruising altitude when tensions erupted between two women seated toward the rear of the aircraft. According to multiple eyewitnesses, what began as a verbal argument quickly escalated into a physical altercation. The nature of the dispute remains unclear, though preliminary reports suggest it may have involved seating arrangements or personal space infringement.

The cabin crew attempted to intervene and de-escalate the situation. However, the passengers involved reportedly refused to calm down. At one point, both women allegedly made their way toward the cockpit area in a rage, shouting and physically banging on the cockpit door — a severe breach of aviation security.

Pilot's Decision and Safety Protocol

Faced with a volatile and unpredictable situation, the captain of the aircraft followed standard safety protocols by informing Air Traffic Control (ATC) and requesting clearance to return to Delhi. The flight was in the air for approximately 30–40 minutes before safely landing back at IGIA.

Upon arrival, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Delhi Police were already on alert and waiting on the tarmac. The two women were escorted off the aircraft and taken into custody for questioning. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew.

Airline and Security Response

SpiceJet issued a brief statement confirming the incident:

“Flight SG-8933 operating from Delhi to Mumbai on July 21 had to return to the origin due to disruptive passenger behavior on board. Safety and security of our passengers and crew is our top priority. The matter was handed over to the relevant authorities for further action.”

CISF officials confirmed that an inquiry has been initiated, and the women may face charges under relevant sections of the Civil Aviation Act and Indian Penal Code for endangering the safety of the aircraft and others on board.

Rising Cases of Air Rage in India

This incident adds to a growing list of air rage cases being reported in Indian aviation. Experts point to a rise in post-pandemic stress, lack of awareness about aviation conduct, and increased passenger traffic as contributing factors.

In recent months, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued repeated advisories to airlines regarding unruly passengers, urging them to take strict action, including blacklisting repeat offenders.

What's Next?

Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage, crew statements, and passenger testimonies to determine the exact cause of the altercation and whether further legal action is warranted. If charged, the women could face fines, flight bans, or even imprisonment under Indian aviation safety laws.

Meanwhile, SpiceJet is evaluating whether the incident merits a formal entry into India’s No-Fly List, a measure reserved for those who pose a threat to in-flight safety.