Qantas Airways has launched a probe on the alleged scandalous 'encounter' between one of its pilots and a female passenger during a long-haul flight that originated from London and landed in Sydney Friday night.

In a statement, a Qantas spokeswoman acknowledged on Tuesday that the reported incident, which shocked passengers seated on QF32's business section, has reached the airline management and a probe is now underway to determine possible sanctions.

Qantas has admitted that the pilot involved is in the active roll of the company though he was reportedly off-duty at the time of the incident.

"Qantas is aware of an incident involving a travelling crew member on board QF32. The matter is being investigated internally in line with Qantas policy," the Qantas statement said as reported by The Herald Sun.

The company spokeswoman also stressed that "interaction of that nature is something that wouldn't be sanctioned," in anyway by airline officials.

According to the Herald Sun, the pilot in subject and his unidentified female companion were observed by co-passengers in intimate moments seemingly unmindful of the aircraft's quite public environment.

Sources quoted by the publication have suggested that the two, who were partly hidden by partitions separating the business section seats, were engaged in 'steamy interactions' that rubbed on the sensibilities of those around them.

A number of passengers called the attention of flight crews, who then approached the couple about the matter, prompting the Qantas pilot to transfer to the economy section until his female friend departed from the plane during a stop in Singapore.

Reports said that the controversial couple may have been a bit drunk, which is quite likely as wine and beer are served on Qantas' luxury section.

Once found guilty of wrongdoing, the Qantas pilot, experts said, could face separation that will cost him a pay of $240,000 each year.

However, the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA) has already indicated that it will vigorously defend the rights of its member, with AIPA vice-president Captain Richard Woodward stressing that "the rights of this member, like any other, will be defended by AIPA should the need arise."