The escape of Amardeep Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Falcon Group, has raised serious concerns about security in India’s air ambulance services. Kumar, who is wanted in a major financial fraud case, allegedly disguised himself as a patient to evade security checks at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) and flee the country. Sources familiar with the investigation confirmed these details.
The aircraft used in his escape, a Hawker 800A (N935H), is expected to be moved to Begumpet Airport on March 10. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has announced that after a thorough evaluation, the jet will be allowed to operate, with any revenue earned directed to the government.
The jet was reportedly purchased in 2024 under Prestige Jets Inc. for USD 1.6 million (approximately ₹13.94 crore). Authorities suspect that fraudulent funds were used for the acquisition. The ED seized the aircraft as soon as it landed at RGIA on March 7.
Security Lapses at Charter Terminals
Kumar’s escape has highlighted security weaknesses in private aviation, especially in air ambulance services, which operate with minimal oversight. Experts argue that the lack of strict medical verification makes it easy for individuals to misuse these services.
Mark Martin, CEO of Martin Consulting, explained that general aviation (GA) terminals do not have medical professionals to verify whether a passenger is truly in need of an air ambulance. “With only medical records as proof, charter operators can bypass scrutiny. At ₹5.50 lakh per hour, air ambulances generate huge revenue while also receiving priority clearance from airport and ATC authorities,” he said.
A senior official from RGIA admitted that security and airport staff usually do not question passengers claiming medical emergencies. “If a traveller presents medical documents, staff refrain from further scrutiny,” he revealed.
The GA terminal at RGIA, which was inaugurated in September 2024, handles two to three flights per day and caters to high-profile travellers. Unlike commercial terminals, these exclusive facilities allow passengers to clear security in under three minutes and board their flights within 10 minutes.
Authorities on High Alert
Following Kumar’s escape, the Cyberabad police have issued Look Out Circulars (LOCs) for him and Falcon Group’s CEO, Vikas Seth. Investigators are now focused on tracking the fugitives and examining the company’s financial transactions.
Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty confirmed that the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) is working to seize immovable assets linked to the case. “The priority is to trace the accused and establish their criminal background. Financial transactions are being analysed for further action,” he said.
Investigators may also seek custody of the aircraft’s crew, whose statements have already been recorded by the ED.
Call for Regulatory Reforms
Industry experts are now demanding stricter regulations to prevent the misuse of air ambulances. Pragya Priyadarshini, Vice-President of Primus Partners India, pointed out how easily high-profile individuals can take advantage of charter services.
“Charter terminals are designed for business tycoons, politicians, and celebrities. With separate security checks and direct access to the aircraft, it is incredibly easy to evade scrutiny,” she noted.
As authorities continue their investigation into Kumar’s escape, the incident has sparked a wider debate about security gaps in private aviation. With concerns growing over how easily fraudulent passengers can slip through, calls for reforms are expected to intensify.
