A passenger has sparked panic on a packed flight after allegedly attempting to open the emergency exit in mid-air.
Several flight attendants overpowered the man.
Another flyer on the flight filmed the shocking moment on their mobile phone in a 10-second video.
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Onlooking travellers are heard groaning and exclaiming “Oh my God” at the man’s apparently dangerous actions.
The scary scenes were filmed on Korean Air flight KE658 from the Thai capital Bangkok to the South Korean capital Seoul on Friday (Nov 8)
It is believed the passenger allegedly tried to open the emergency exit about an hour into the flight.
An airline spokesperson said the disruptive passenger was found “occupying a crew jumpseat in the emergency exit area during the flight”.
They continued: “Upon crew intervention requesting his return to the assigned seat, the passenger exhibited non-compliant behaviour.
“Including verbal aggression and threatening movements toward crew members while attempting to access the emergency exit area.
“Under the captain’s authority, restraint measures were implemented, and the passenger was relocated to a secure area where the situation was successfully de-escalated.”
The Airbus A330-300 landed safely at Incheon International Airport and the man was handed over to the authorities “for further investigation”.
The Korean Air spokesperson continued: “The incident was managed according to our established security protocols, to prioritise passenger safety and operational integrity.
“While the situation was successfully contained, we will cooperate with relevant authorities in the investigation of this matter.”
The airline spokesperson added: “Korean Air maintains a zero-tolerance approach to behaviours that compromise aviation safety and will continue to respond decisively to such incidents.”
The investigation continues.
Cabin pressure differentials make it virtually impossible for a passenger to open an emergency exit in mid-air, although it has been achieved at low altitudes.
In May 2023, a 33-year-old passenger successfully opened an Asiana Airlines emergency door just before landing.
On that occasion, nine passengers needed medical care for breathing complications, as reported by Need To Know.
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