Air Asia orders probe after flight takes off without Karnataka Governor Gehlot on board

Malaysian multinational airlines Air Asia has ordered a probe and promised that appropriate action would be taken after an aircraft allegedly took off from the Kempegowda International Airport on Thursday without taking Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot on board, the company announced on Friday.

“We sincerely regret the incident. An investigation is being conducted and appropriate action will be taken. The senior leadership team of the airline is in contact with the Governor’s Office to address the concerns,” an Air Asia spokesperson told news agency ANI.

“Our commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and adherence to protocol remains unwavering, and we deeply value our relationship with the Governor’s Office.”

Air Asia flight takes off without Governor on board; officer files complaint

Earlier in the day, Karnataka Governor Gehlot alleged that an Air Asia flight took off without taking him on board, while he was waiting at the Kempegowda Airport lounge. As per the Governor’s schedule, he was supposed to take the Hyderabad-bound Air Asia flight I15972 to attend an event.

The Governor’s Protocol Officer M Venugopal has accordingly filed a complaint at the airport police station, calling the incident a breach of protocol.

“Accordingly, the Governor left Raj Bhavan at 1:10 PM and reached the VIP Lounge of Terminal-1 at 1:35 PM. By that time, the luggage belonging to the Governor was loaded onto the plane,” the complaint read, adding that the flight was supposed to depart at 2:05 PM.

After missing his intended flight, the Governor had to wait for another 90 minutes to take another flight to Hyderabad.