IndiGo Flight Chaos: Passenger Suffers Panic Attack, Gets Slapped by Co-Traveler Instead of Help

Air travel is often associated with comfort, peace, and a smooth journey above the clouds. But for passengers aboard an IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Kolkata, that expectation was quickly shattered when a shocking altercation unfolded mid-cabin. A man experiencing a panic attack was unexpectedly slapped by a fellow passenger, leading to chaos and outrage both inside the aircraft and online.

The incident took place on IndiGo flight 6E 138, and a video of the confrontation is now going viral on social media, sparking a wave of criticism over the inappropriate and insensitive reaction.

Panic Attack Turns Violent in Mid-Air Drama

According to passengers on board, the event occurred shortly after boarding. One individual began showing clear signs of a panic attack. The cabin crew responded promptly, offering immediate assistance. But instead of helping, a nearby passenger reacted violently—standing up and delivering a sharp slap to the already distressed individual.

The moment was captured on video by another passenger, showing the aggressor slapping the anxious man while the flight crew rushed in to de-escalate the situation.

"He’s Bothering Everyone!" — A Shocking Justification

The video captures more than just the slap. It also includes audio of flight attendants trying to calm the situation. One crew member is heard saying, “Sir, please don’t do this,” while another passenger questions the attacker, asking, “Why did you hit him?”

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The man who delivered the slap justified his actions by claiming, “Everyone is getting disturbed because of him.”

But as one of the bystanders rightly pointed out, inconvenience doesn’t give anyone the right to raise a hand—especially on someone facing a medical emergency.

One concerned traveler even requested water for the affected passenger, saying, “He’s having a panic attack, please bring some water,” demonstrating the kind of human compassion that many say was sorely missing from the aggressor.

Suspect Handed Over to Police, IndiGo Responds

Following the incident, IndiGo staff took swift action. The accused was removed from the flight and handed over to airport security, who later involved local law enforcement. The man was taken into custody, and legal proceedings have reportedly been initiated.

In a formal statement, IndiGo condemned the behavior, saying:

“We strongly denounce this kind of unacceptable behavior onboard our flights. The involved passenger was handed over to the authorities following aviation protocols.”

The airline confirmed that all regulatory bodies were informed and that the captain ordered the ejection of the offending individual from the flight.

Mental Health: Still Misunderstood in Public Spaces

This incident has ignited a broader conversation around mental health awareness and how society responds to it. Panic attacks, anxiety, and other mental health challenges are still often misunderstood or dismissed—sometimes with dangerous consequences.

Experts and mental health advocates are emphasizing the need for greater empathy, awareness, and training, especially in public spaces like airports and flights, where such episodes can occur due to stress or enclosed environments.

Social Media Reacts Strongly

The video of the slap has triggered a flood of online reactions. While some expressed disbelief at the aggression, many praised the bystanders and flight crew for stepping in. The majority, however, called for stricter action against such behavior and better awareness training for both passengers and airline staff.

Conclusion:
A panic attack is a medical emergency, not an inconvenience. The IndiGo flight incident serves as a sobering reminder of how mental health issues are still met with stigma, ignorance, and in this case—violence. It also highlights the importance of empathy and calm intervention in crisis moments.

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