SpiceJet pilots investigated after photo shows open coffee cup in cockpit

Two SpiceJet pilots are being investigated after a photo shared on social media appeared to show an open coffee cup and pastries in the cockpit mid-flight.

The image, in which a SpiceJet logo can clearly be seen on a cup, was shared in a highly critical tweet by an aviation safety consultant on March 14, 2023.

In the post Mohan Ranganathan wrote: “Samosa and tea at 37000ft, cruising at 0.79M! Even horoscope can’t save you if there is an emergency.”

In the photo the open coffee is seen balancing on the operation controls of the cockpit while two gujiyas, a sweet pastry, are being handled.

According to the Times of India after the image went viral the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered the Indian airline to investigate.

The photo was reportedly taken during a from Delhi to Guwahati on March 8, a day when Hindu’s celebrate the festival of Holi, according to the BBC.

“Both pilots have been off rostered pending an inquiry. SpiceJet has a strict policy for consumption of food inside the cockpit which is adhered by all flight crew. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken upon completion of the investigation,” a SpiceJet spokesperson said.

While pilots are allowed to drink and eat food in the cockpit, hot liquids such as coffees or tea must be covered.

Liquids that spill onto the equipment could potentially cause electrics to short circuit, resulting in a possible emergency.