India airline fires 2 pilots after reported fight in cockpit

In this file photo, a Jet Airways aircraft lands at the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, India. India’s Jet Airways says it has ordered an investigation into reports that a senior pilot slapped a female co-pilot in the cockpit during a London to Mumbai flight this week. (AP)

NEW DELHI: An Indian airline has fired two pilots reportedly involved in a midair cockpit fight on New Year’s Day, when the pilot allegedly slapped his co-pilot during a London to Mumbai flight.
After an investigation, Jet Airways “has terminated services of both the cockpit crew with immediate effect,” the airline said in a statement Tuesday.
The company has released no further details. Indian media reports have said that the male pilot and the female co-pilot argued in the cockpit. After being slapped, the co-pilot reportedly emerged crying from the cockpit and for a time refused to return.
Airline officials did not immediately reply to requests for comment.
The flight, which was carrying 324 passengers and 14 crew members, landed safely.