On a day the pilots of the Air India flight were arrested, and bailed, on charges of assaulting and molesting an airhostess, the National Commission for Women (NCW) proposed to formulate guidelines for airlines staff. NCW chairperson Girija Vyas on Tuesday said the guidelines are necessary as it is a matter not only of someone’s dignity but is also important for the safety of passengers. “There will be a code of conduct that airlines staff will have to adhere to,” she said. “Committee members looking into the issue will see if other countries also follow certain guidelines.”

The guidelines, Vyas said, will ensure interaction between pilots and crew members is minimal so that such incidents are not repeated. “When there is an intercom why do airhostesses need to go to the cockpit?” she asked.

NCW had earlier formulated guidelines for the BPO sector after similar cases were reported from the IT industry. Vyas said they had received several complaints of misbehaviour, sexual harassment and gender discrimination from Air India staff, though they were settled at the NCW level.

NCW members will meet Air India staff, including the pilots, on Wednesday to record their statements. The Commission is also trying to get in touch with other passengers to get more details on the case. The NCW has asked Air India to submit a report within 15 days.