A deeply disturbing incident occurred on an Air India flight from Delhi to Bangkok, where a passenger urinated on Hiroshi Yoshizane, the Managing Director of Bridgestone India, while both were seated in the business class section.
The incident has sparked outrage across social media, raising serious concerns about in-flight conduct and passenger discipline, even in premium cabins.
The flight, Air India A12336, was in its final stage of descent on April 9, 2025, when the incident took place. The accused, identified as Tushar Masand, an Indian national seated in 2D, allegedly urinated on Mr. Yoshizane, who was seated directly in front of him in 1D. Witnesses onboard say the act stunned everyone in the cabin, including fellow passengers who immediately demanded action.
The airline crew responded promptly. Masand was moved to seat 14C in the economy class, while senior cabin crew members Sunpreet Singh and Rishika Matre assisted the victim by providing towels and escorting him to the lavatory to change. Despite repeated verbal apologies from Masand, the environment onboard had already become uncomfortable and distressing.
Matthew, a co-passenger seated in 1F, expressed visible discomfort and requested that Masand be relocated immediately, stating he did not feel safe sitting near him. His reaction reflected the sentiment shared by many onboard—shock, disgust, and concern.
Although Mr. Yoshizane declined to file a formal complaint, likely to avoid further delay upon landing, he did seek a formal apology from the airline. Meanwhile, Air India has officially reported the incident to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
In a statement to ANI, the airline confirmed the incident and shared details of the crew’s immediate action.
“Air India confirms that an incident of unruly passenger behaviour was reported to the cabin crew operating flight A12336, from Delhi to Bangkok, on 9 April 2025. The crew followed all laid down procedures, and the matter has been reported to the authorities.”
The airline also noted that the crew offered support to Mr. Yoshizane in pursuing the matter further with authorities in Bangkok, but he declined at the time.
Air India has now referred the case to its standing Independent Committee to evaluate the situation and decide on further action against the accused.
“The standing Independent Committee will be convened to assess the incident and determine the action, if any, to be taken against the unruly passenger.”
Reiterating its stance, the airline said it remains committed to strictly following all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) laid out by the DGCA in such cases.
This incident not only brings unwanted attention to Air India but also raises larger concerns about passenger accountability and the experience of international travellers. It’s a reminder that maintaining dignity and discipline at 35,000 feet is not just expected—it’s essential.