A video showing a heated argument between passengers and cabin crew on an IndiGo flight to Krabi, Thailand, has gone viral on social media, highlighting growing concerns about passenger behaviour onboard aircraft.

The incident took place on flight 6E 1085, which was scheduled to depart from Mumbai on Thursday. The flight was delayed for more than three hours, leading to visible frustration among passengers.

Videos shared online show several travellers shouting at cabin crew, demanding explanations for the delay. Some passengers were heard using abusive language, while others chanted slogans, creating a tense atmosphere inside the aircraft.

What airline said

In a statement, IndiGo said the delay was caused by a combination of factors, including the late arrival of the incoming aircraft, air traffic congestion and crew members reaching their maximum allowed duty hours.

During the wait, two passengers behaved inappropriately and were declared unruly under standard procedures. “They were deboarded and handed over to security agencies, which caused further delay,” the airline said.

IndiGo added that meals and refreshments were served multiple times and airport staff were available to assist passengers during the extended waiting period.

“We remain committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all and regret the inconvenience caused to our customers,” the airline said.

Rising trend

This incident highlights a rising trend of abusive behaviour by passengers onboard flights, especially during delays and disruptions. Aviation experts say that increasing congestion, weather disruptions, and operational constraints are leading to more flight delays, while passenger tolerance levels appear to be declining.

Airlines are reporting more cases of verbal abuse, threats and aggressive behaviour towards crew members, who are trained primarily for passenger safety, not conflict management. Such behaviour not only affects crew morale but can also compromise onboard safety and lead to further operational disruptions.

Aviation authorities and airlines have repeatedly stressed the need for zero tolerance toward unruly behaviour onboard aircraft. Industry observers say stricter enforcement, faster blacklisting procedures, and stronger legal action are needed to protect crew members and maintain safety and order in the skies.

IndiGo crisis

The incident comes after IndiGo faced significant operational challenges last year in December, when it struggled to implement new pilot duty time regulations that required longer rest periods. Although the rules were announced months in advance, reports said the airline failed to adjust staffing and rostering systems in time, leading to a shortage of pilots and the cancellation of over 1,000 flights.