Aviation Watchdog to Examine Air India’s ‘Broken Seat’ After Shivraj Chouhan’s Complaint

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has assured Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of prompt action following Chouhan’s “uncomfortable” flight experience with Air India. Chouhan took to social media platform X to criticize the airline for “cheating passengers” by allotting him a “broken and sunken” seat during his flight from Bhopal to Delhi.

*Complaint and Response*

Chouhan shared his experience, stating, “I had booked a ticket on Air India flight number AI436 and I was allotted seat number 8C. When I sat down, the seat was broken and sunken. It was uncomfortable to sit there.” He added that airline staff informed him that the management was aware of the defective seat and that it should not have been sold. Despite the situation, Chouhan chose to remain in the broken seat to avoid inconveniencing other passengers.

Chouhan emphasized that it was unethical to charge passengers full fare for defective seats, stating, “Isn’t this cheating the passengers?” He questioned whether Air India management would take steps to prevent such incidents in the future or continue to take advantage of passengers’ need to reach their destinations.

*Aviation Minister’s Action*

In response to Chouhan’s complaint, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to “examine the matter and suggest corrective measures immediately.” Naidu personally spoke to Chouhan and assured him that necessary actions would be taken.

*Air India’s Apology*

Air India issued an apology to Chouhan, stating, “Air India deeply regrets the inconvenience caused to Hon’ble Union Minister, Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan ji on his flight from Bhopal to Delhi. This does not reflect the standard of service we strive to provide to our guests, and we are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.”

*Public Reaction*

Chouhan’s complaint triggered a wave of criticism online, with social media users blasting Air India’s response and service quality. One user commented, “They send a copy-paste response to one of the most powerful people in the country. Just imagine how much would they care for us commoners.”

As the DGCA examines the issue, the focus remains on ensuring that such incidents do not recur, and passengers receive the quality of service they deserve.