Rustom Bhagwagar, a 34-year-old Delta Airlines co-pilot of Indian origin, was arrested shortly after landing at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on July 26, 2025, in connection with alleged sex crimes involving a minor. Federal agents boarded the aircraft moments after it reached the gate and took him into custody, leaving passengers and crew visibly shocked.
According to the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began in April after they received a report of child sexual abuse. Following weeks of inquiry, Bhagwagar was identified as the suspect and later arrested. He is currently being held on $5 million bail.
Also Read – Shocking: Indian Filmed 13K US Patients in Toilets
The arrest was executed by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from local law enforcement. The operation took place on Delta Flight 2809, with Bhagwagar reportedly unaware of the impending arrest until federal agents boarded the plane.
Bhagwagar is of Indian origin and currently resides in Florida. While some reports note his long-term presence in the U.S., his exact immigration or citizenship status remains unconfirmed at this time.
Also Read – Expired License, Brakes Fail, H-1B in Panic
Delta Airlines has not yet issued a formal statement but confirmed it is cooperating fully with authorities. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has also declined to comment further, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the involvement of a minor.
Mid-flight arrests of commercial pilots are extremely rare and typically occur only in cases involving serious legal violations. This incident is among the few in recent years where a commercial airline pilot has been taken into custody while on duty.
Also Read – Can Divorced Green Card Holders Return to U.S.?
Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues. This is a developing story.
