Author and radio storyteller Neelesh Misra has raised concerns over IndiGo Airlines’ handling of his 10-year-old daughter during her solo journey as an unaccompanied minor, saying the airline’s explanation failed to address the issues he highlighted.

Misra took to social media platform X to express his dissatisfaction with IndiGo’s response, stating that the airline’s “detailed account does not address any of the concerns I raised.” While acknowledging that IndiGo was defending its staff and procedures, he advised parents to be cautious while sending children to travel alone.

“I understand your need to defend your employee and your protocols. It is predictable. But your detailed account does not address any of the concerns I raised,” Misra wrote. He added that he came to know about the alleged behaviour only because he had given his daughter a basic mobile phone for emergencies during the journey.

What are the allegations?

Earlier, Misra had alleged that a cabin crew member behaved rudely towards his daughter while she was travelling alone from Lucknow to Goa. He claimed that his daughter was spoken to in a demeaning manner and was made uncomfortable during the boarding process.

According to Misra, the crew member allegedly called his daughter a “finicky eater” and made remarks such as, “Don’t you have eyes? Go, go eat! Go and miss your flight!” The comments, he said, were inappropriate and upsetting for a child travelling alone.

IndiGo’s response

Following the complaint, IndiGo conducted an internal review and released a statement defending its staff and processes. The airline said that Misra’s daughter remained under continuous supervision throughout her journey, in line with its Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) protocol.

IndiGo stated that its staff members were courteous and attentive, and that the child was cared for at every stage of travel. The airline also explained that as boarding time approached, the girl wanted to visit some food outlets at the airport.

“Despite the limited time available, our team members waited patiently, escorted her safely and ensured that she boarded the flight,” IndiGo said in its statement. The airline added that being present, attentive and supportive remains a core commitment of its employees.

Despite IndiGo’s explanation, Misra maintained that his concerns were not adequately addressed. He said that while he did not wish to prolong the matter on social media, he felt it was important to warn other parents to be mindful when sending children to travel alone.

The issue has since sparked wider discussion online about the treatment of unaccompanied minors and the need for greater sensitivity while dealing with children travelling without parents.

Incidents like these underline the vulnerability of children travelling alone and the importance of consistent sensitivity in airline operations. While carriers may have formal protocols in place, the actual on-ground experience can vary widely depending on individual staff behaviour. For parents, this serves as a reminder to exercise caution, ensure clear communication with airlines, and prepare children for their journey because, for young flyers, a single unpleasant interaction can leave a lasting impression.