Passenger restrained after attempting to open emergency exit on Batik Air flight
A man on a Batik Air flight from Malaysia to India tried to open an emergency exit at 30,000 feet, was subdued by fellow passengers and crew, and was arrested on serious charges upon landing.
During a Batik Air service from Malaysia to India on Aug. 7, passenger Jamsheer Athanikkal, 36, abruptly tried to open the plane's emergency exit while the aircraft was cruising at about 30,000 feet, shattering the window and breaking the surrounding plastic panel. He allegedly threatened fellow passengers and the cabin crew, prompting a collective effort by other travelers and staff to restrain him using zip ties. Video of the chaotic scene circulated on social media, showing the extent of the damage.
Upon arrival at Kochi Airport, police arrested Athanikkal, charging him with criminal intimidation, failure to follow safety directives, and risking public safety, later elevating the case to an attempt-to-murder allegation. Officials emphasized that his actions could have endangered everyone on board.
Why it matters
The episode highlights severe in-flight security risks and the potential for passenger actions to jeopardize airline safety.
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