Two pilots have been removed from duty following an alleged fight in the cockpit.

The Air India workers have been grounded after the co-pilot reportedly struck the captain, The Times of India says.

However, the airline insists the altercation was a verbal argument rather than physical violence.

A spokesman for the airline said: "Both the pilots have been derostered. An inquiry has been ordered into this."

The Times quoted a senior commander source as saying the captain was assaulted after asking his colleague to record data - including passenger numbers on board - before take-off.

The flight from Delhi to Jaipur took place despite the row, and after landing staff were informed of the incident.

Air India has been previously criticised on safety grounds for operating with minimal crews and with only one entry-exit point on planes.

Originally posted at 10.31