IndiGo Takes Legal Action After Airport Incident Involving Catering Supervisor
In a significant development at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, IndiGo airline has officially filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Abdul Latif, a supervisor from Oberoi Flight Services. The legal action follows an incident on Tuesday night where a catering vehicle rolled uncontrolled and collided with an A-320 aircraft parked on Bay 51.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Accident
According to preliminary investigations conducted jointly by airport authorities and IndiGo officials, the accident occurred precisely at 9:25 PM when the catering supervisor was overseeing meal services for four different flights. The critical error happened when Abdul Latif alighted from the SUV without engaging the hand brake, a clear violation of standard operating procedures.
The vehicle, left in neutral gear, began rolling down a gentle slope and made contact with the right engine exhaust of the stationary aircraft. An official familiar with the investigation stated, "The supervisor had deviated from established safety protocols by neglecting to secure the vehicle properly. Fortunately, the slope's mild gradient prevented more severe consequences."
Assessment of Aircraft Damage and Operational Impact
Following the collision, a thorough inspection was conducted on the affected A-320 aircraft. The assessment revealed only minor damage to the engine exhaust component. Airline representatives have expressed confidence that the aircraft will be fully repaired and certified airworthy by Thursday at the latest, minimizing disruption to flight schedules.
Immediately after the incident, the catering supervisor underwent mandatory alcohol testing through a breathalyser examination. The test results came back negative, confirming that impairment was not a contributing factor to the procedural lapse.
Broader Implications for Airport Safety Protocols
This incident has highlighted several important considerations for airport ground operations:
- The critical importance of adhering to established safety procedures for all ground service personnel
- The potential risks posed by even minor deviations from standard operating protocols
- The effectiveness of immediate response measures including alcohol testing following incidents
- The collaborative investigation process between airlines and airport operators
The filing of the FIR represents a formal legal step by IndiGo to document the incident and ensure appropriate accountability. While the physical damage was minimal, the airline's action underscores the seriousness with which safety violations are treated in aviation operations, particularly those involving direct contact with aircraft.
