Indian-origin Delta Airlines co-pilot Rustom Bhagwagar, 34, was allegedly arrested on July 26, 2025, immediately after his flight landed at San Francisco International Airport. The arrest reportedly took place in the cockpit of Delta Flight 2809, arriving from Minneapolis onboard a Boeing 757-300. Bhagwagar faces serious charges including five felony counts of oral copulation with a child under 10 years of age.
The investigation allegedly began in April 2025 after the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office received a report of child sexual abuse. Homeland Security Investigations reportedly assisted in the arrest. Bhagwagar is currently held at the Martinez Detention Facility on $5 million bail. Delta Airlines has suspended him pending an ongoing investigation.
Dramatic Arrest on Board Shocks Passengers and Crew
According to official statements from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, detectives reportedly began investigating in April 2025 following a report of child sexual abuse. After identifying Bhagwagar as a suspect and securing a Ramey arrest warrant, law enforcement allegedly planned his arrest carefully. On July 26, minutes after Delta Flight 2809 arrived and parked at the gate, a team of at least 10 officials including Homeland Security agents reportedly boarded the aircraft.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as shocking and swift, with agents storming through the cabin into the cockpit, reportedly cuffing Bhagwagar in front of stunned passengers while they were still deplaning. One co-pilot said he was reportedly unaware of Bhagwagar’s arrest to prevent any chance of escape.
Officials confirmed that the alleged abuse reportedly happened when the victim was under 10 years old, with reports indicating some incidents occurred while the victim’s mother was present. Bhagwagar was allegedly booked at the Martinez Detention Facility on five felony counts of oral copulation with a minor.
Ongoing Investigation and Airline’s Response
The arrest is reportedly the culmination of a months-long investigation by the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, supported by Homeland Security Investigations, who facilitated airport and plane access but were reportedly not leading the probe. Bhagwagar’s bail was initially set at $5 million. Delta Airlines has expressed shock and condemned the allegations in a statement, affirming a zero-tolerance policy for unlawful conduct.
They have reportedly suspended Bhagwagar and pledged full cooperation with authorities. The airline declined further comment due to the active investigation. Passengers who witnessed the arrest described the atmosphere as tense and confusing, with crews reportedly providing little information at the time to avoid panic.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This deeply troubling case allegedly highlights the urgent need for robust background checks, continuous oversight, and swift action when allegations emerge, especially for individuals in trusted, high-responsibility roles.
The Logical Indian advocates for a justice system that balances the presumption of innocence with prioritising protection of vulnerable children. Society must reportedly strengthen protective mechanisms, foster transparency, and encourage empathy towards survivors while holding perpetrators accountable.
