In an awkward incident, AirAsia flight took off without boarding Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot on Thursday citing late arrival. However, the office of the Governor has written to the Airport Authority of India to take action against the airline for the alleged “violation of protocol” despite reaching before the flight taking off.
Reportedly, Gehlot was denied entry by the airline staff as he arrived late while sources with the Governor's office said that he reached 15 minutes before the departure of the flight.
Gehlot was scheduled to catch the 2.05 pm AirAsia flight 15-972 from Bengaluru to Hyderabad.
The Governor reached the Rajiv Gandhi International airport VIP lounge at 1.50 pm, said sources. Sources also added that he had spent a small amount of time in the restroom before being escorted to the aircraft.
Reportedly, it was citing delay in arrival and closure of the flight door the Governor was not allowed to board.
The office of the Governor of Karnataka Thawarchand Gehlot has written to the the Kempegowda International Airport Limited and AirAsia as well regarding the incident and alleged violation of protocol.
"The Governor was not late and there was still five minutes for the take-off. The ATC and the flight attendants could have permitted the Governor to enter the flight. It is a violation of protocol. A letter has been written seeking legal action. This is the first time a Governor has not been allowed to board a flight after being on time," a source was quoted by The Indian Express.
However, Gehlot was later put on the next available flight to Hyderabad around 90 minutes after he missed the flight.
