Passenger arrested for attempting to open emergency exit on Kochi-bound flight from Kuala Lumpur mid-air
A passenger was arrested after attempting to force open the emergency exit of a Batik Air flight traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi. The individual also damaged the window panel and threatened crew members, leading to charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Aircraft Act.
Why it matters
This incident underscores the critical importance of aviation security and the legal consequences for passengers who endanger flight safety.
A passenger was arrested for allegedly attempting to open the emergency exit of a Kuala Lumpur-Kochi flight and threatening fellow passengers and cabin crew, the police said on Thursday (August 6, 2026).
He is also accused of damaging the exit’s window panel.
The accused was identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal, who was travelling on Batik Air flight OD231 from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi on Wednesday.
According to the FIR, the incident occurred between 9.30 pm and 11.05 pm while the aircraft was in flight.
The FIR alleged that the passenger tried to force open the aircraft’s emergency exit, damaged its window panel and threatened fellow passengers, thereby endangering the safety of those on board.
Cabin crew intervened and restrained the passenger, the police said.
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