Did an Air India Express Passenger Really Try to Open the Cockpit Door?
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Synopsis
In a surprising incident, an Air India Express passenger attempted to open the cockpit door while searching for the lavatory. This event raises questions about airline safety protocols and passenger behavior. Meanwhile, the airline has announced new direct flights to Bangkok, aiming to enhance travel convenience during the festive season.
Key Takeaways
- Passenger attempted to access cockpit during flight.
- Swift action taken by crew to ensure safety.
- Airline maintains robust safety protocols.
- New direct flights to Bangkok announced.
- 'PAN-PAN' signal indicates urgent situations.
New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) An incident occurred on an Air India Express flight from Bengaluru to Varanasi where a passenger attempted to access the cockpit door, purportedly in search of the lavatory, as reported by the airline on Monday.
The individual, one of nine passengers aboard, was swiftly detained by the crew and handed over to the Central Industrial Security Force upon the flight's safe landing.
An Air India Express representative stated, "We acknowledge the media reports regarding this incident on our flight to Varanasi, where a passenger approached the cockpit area while looking for the lavatory."
The airline reassured that "comprehensive safety and security measures are firmly established and were not breached" and confirmed the incident has been referred to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.
In a separate announcement, Air India Express revealed they have launched new daily direct services between Bengaluru and Bangkok, starting Thursday. The flight will depart Bengaluru at 11 am (IST) and arrive in Bangkok at 4:45 pm (IST).
This new route aims to offer travelers seamless, non-stop access to Thailand, especially during the forthcoming festive and holiday periods.
Earlier in the month, an Air India Express flight bound for Indore from Delhi encountered a mid-air engine issue, leading the pilots to issue a ‘PAN-PAN’ call to Air Traffic Control before landing safely with all passengers unharmed.
The internationally recognized ‘PAN-PAN’ signal indicates an urgent but non-life-threatening scenario needing immediate assistance from air traffic control or ground services.
On September 5, officials revealed that flight IX 1028 was carrying 161 passengers when the crew detected a suspected oil filter problem during descent into Indore.
Air India and its budget division, Air India Express, reported a collective pre-tax loss of ₹9,568.4 crore for FY 25. Air India Express, which had been profitable for years, reported a loss of ₹5,678.2 crore.
Point of View
This incident highlights the critical need for stringent safety measures in aviation. While the passenger's actions may appear alarming, it's essential to approach such situations with a balanced view, recognizing the airline's commitment to passenger safety and the swift action taken by the crew.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on the Air India Express flight?
A passenger attempted to open the cockpit door while searching for the lavatory on a flight from Bengaluru to Varanasi.
What actions were taken by the crew?
The crew detained the passenger and handed him over to the Central Industrial Security Force upon landing.
What measures does Air India Express have in place for safety?
Air India Express stated that they have robust safety and security protocols that were not compromised during the incident.
What recent flight expansions did Air India Express announce?
Air India Express announced new daily direct flights between Bengaluru and Bangkok, starting Thursday.
What does the 'PAN-PAN' signal indicate?
The 'PAN-PAN' signal is an urgent aviation signal indicating a situation that requires immediate assistance but is not life-threatening.
