Air India Criticized: Elderly Passenger Dies Without Wheelchair Help

Air India Criticized: Elderly Passenger Dies Without Wheelchair Help

Post by : Dr. Amrinder Singh

Feb. 17, 2024 12:49 p.m. 2611

Photo: www.airindia.in

In a heartbreaking incident at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Air India is under intense scrutiny following the tragic death of an 80-year-old passenger, Babu Patel. The incident unfolded on February 12 when Air India flight AI-116 from New York arrived. Patel, accompanied by his 76-year-old spouse, Narmadaben Patel, had both pre-booked wheelchairs for assistance during their journey.

However, upon disembarkation, a distressing oversight occurred as only one wheelchair was available. This left Patel to walk alongside his wife, who was the sole beneficiary of the available wheelchair. The tragic turn of events unfolded during the journey from the aircraft to the terminal when Patel collapsed near the APHO office. Prompt response from airport medical personnel included administering CPR, and Patel was swiftly transported to Nanavati Hospital in an MIAL ambulance. Despite the medical efforts, Chief Medical Officer Ronaldo confirmed Patel's passing.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has pointed out violations of regulations outlined in CAR Section 3, Series 'M', Part I, specifically addressing the carriage of persons with disabilities or reduced mobility. According to Para 4.1.7 of the CAR, airlines are obligated to provide seamless assistance to passengers with specific needs, ensuring their safe travel from the departure terminal to the aircraft and from the aircraft to the arrival terminal exit.

In response to the lapse, Air India has received a 'Show Cause Notice' from the DGCA, questioning the airline's failure to adhere to these regulations. The notice mandates a response within seven days. Additionally, the DGCA has issued an advisory to all airlines, emphasizing the need to ensure an adequate supply of wheelchairs for passengers requiring assistance during both embarkation and disembarkation.

This incident not only raises questions about the implementation of passenger assistance protocols but also underscores the critical importance of adherence to regulations designed to safeguard passengers with specific needs during air travel.


 

Asian Markets Stumble Ahead of Nvidia Earnings, US Jitters

Asian markets struggle as tech jitters hit ahead of Nvidia earnings. Yen weakens, bonds rise, Bitcoi

Nov. 19, 2025 11:25 a.m. 101

Elon Musk Joins Trump, Saudi Prince At Dinner Amid Patch-Up Buzz

Elon Musk joins Trump and the Saudi Prince at a high-profile dinner, sparking fresh buzz. The Elon M

Nov. 19, 2025 11:24 a.m. 103

Best Budget-Friendly Holiday Destinations for 2025: Japan, Vietnam, Dubai and More

Explore the best affordable holiday destinations for 2025, including Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Maldi

Nov. 19, 2025 11:19 a.m. 15

Billy Bob Thornton Sets Record Straight on Blood Locket Rumor

Billy Bob Thornton clears the record on his relationship with Angelina Jolie, explaining the infamou

Nov. 19, 2025 11:19 a.m. 224

Zeenat Aman at 74 Shares the Simple and Healthy Diet That Keeps Her Fit

At 74, Zeenat Aman follows a simple diet focused on fresh and wholesome food. Here is what she eats

Nov. 19, 2025 11:16 a.m. 22

Ranveer Singh Hails Sara Arjun as Bollywood’s Young Prodigy

Ranveer Singh praises debutante Sara Arjun in Dhurandhar calling her a prodigy and comparing her to

Nov. 19, 2025 11:16 a.m. 216

Fujairah Equestrian Championships 2025 Begins This Month

The 2025 Fujairah Equestrian Championships begin with the International Jumping Championship, welcom

Nov. 19, 2025 11:16 a.m. 223

Sheikh Shakhboot Meets Angola President to Boost Relations

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan meets Angola’s President in Luanda to discuss bilateral ties, regional i

Nov. 19, 2025 11:11 a.m. 224

Top Bridal Jewellery Trends Every 2025 Bride Must Try

From regal Polki chokers to modern minimalism, temple jewellery, and colourful gemstones, discover t

Nov. 19, 2025 11:09 a.m. 230
Sponsored
https://markaziasolutions.com/
Trending News

Kannada Actor Yash’s Mother Alleges Rs 64L Film Scam

Pushpalatha, mother of actor Yash, alleges promoter Harish Arasu cheated her of Rs 64.87 lakh, misus

Nov. 19, 2025 11:01 a.m. 232

Rashmika & Vijay: Engagement, PDA & Love Moments

Rashmika opens up on past love, Vijay shows sweet support at The Girlfriend event, leaving fans swoo

Nov. 18, 2025 6:04 p.m. 287

Abu Dhabi Hosts Round Two of Formula 4 Powerboat Race

UAE Formula 4 Powerboat Championship returns to Abu Dhabi Corniche with local and international race

Nov. 18, 2025 5:14 p.m. 287

India A to Face Oman in Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 on Tuesday

India A faces Oman in Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 after a loss to Pakistan, aiming for a second win a

Nov. 18, 2025 4:42 p.m. 281

Keisuke Honda Believes Japan Can Win 2026 World Cup

Keisuke Honda believes Japan has the talent and potential to reach the semifinals or win the 2026 Wo

Nov. 18, 2025 3:15 p.m. 296

Netherlands Coach Sees Strong Team for World Cup 2026

Koeman praises Netherlands squad after 4-0 win over Lithuania, emphasizing quality, leadership, and

Nov. 18, 2025 3:11 p.m. 285

Tuchel to Guide Dropped England Players Ahead of World Cup

England manager Tuchel will guide dropped players like Alexander-Arnold and Bellingham to prepare fo

Nov. 18, 2025 2:49 p.m. 274

Josh Tongue Confident England Prepared for Ashes in Australia

Josh Tongue confident England is ready for the Ashes in Australia, highlighting a strong bowling att

Nov. 18, 2025 1:56 p.m. 275