India‘s aviation safety regulator has fined an Indian airline, Air India, ₹3 million (approximately USD 36,201.57) following the death of an 80-year-old man who suffered a cardiac arrest after waiting for wheelchair assistance.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) took action against the airline, Air India, after Babu Patel, who had pre-booked wheelchair assistance upon arrival at Mumbai airport from New York, was forced to wait due to “heavy demand.”

While his wife received a wheelchair, Mr. Patel reportedly chose to walk alongside her rather than wait further. He collapsed on his way to immigration and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Following the incident, the National Human Rights Commission sought a detailed report from aviation authorities and compensation for the family. The DGCA found that Air India failed to comply with regulations for passengers with limited mobility and did not take action against involved staff. They also noted the airline’s lack of corrective measures to prevent similar incidents.

The regulator has issued an advisory to all airlines regarding ensuring adequate availability of wheelchairs for passengers. Air India, in response to the fine, stated they are “in constant touch with the family members” and reiterated their policy of offering wheelchair assistance upon request.

This incident comes amidst another recent controversy involving Air India, where a passenger alleged being served non-vegetarian food despite requesting a vegetarian meal.

The airline has acknowledged both incidents and is reportedly addressing them.