Batik Air Flight Scare: Kuala Lumpur-Kochi Flight OD231 Passenger Attempts To Open Emergency Exit Midair, Arrested (Video)

A passenger was arrested after allegedly attempting to open an emergency exit aboard a Batik Air flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi, prompting swift intervention by the cabin crew and a mid-air safety response. Police said the passenger also allegedly threatened fellow travellers and crew members before being restrained. He was taken into custody immediately after the aircraft landed at Kochi on Thursday.

Batik Air Passenger Tries To Open Emergency Exit Midair

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the accused, identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal, was travelling on Batik Air flight OD231 from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi on Wednesday.  Police said the incident occurred between 9.30 pm and 11.05 pm, when the passenger allegedly tried to force open the aircraft's emergency exit. Investigators also alleged that he damaged the emergency exit's window panel and threatened passengers and cabin crew, creating a safety risk on board. Air India Flight AI2379 Turbulence Incident: DGCA Initiates Detailed Investigation After Aircraft Loses 300 Feet.

Passenger Attempts To Open Emergency Exit Midair on Batik Air Flight

Cabin Crew Restrained the Passenger

The cabin crew intervened promptly and restrained the passenger before the situation escalated further, according to police. The flight continued to Kochi without diversion and landed safely. Based on a complaint filed by Batik Air's security in-charge, airport authorities and police arrested the accused soon after the aircraft arrived.

Police Register Multiple Charges

Police have booked the accused under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to criminal intimidation, along with Section 11A of the Aircraft Act for violating aircraft safety regulations and Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act for acts endangering public safety. Authorities said the investigation is continuing to determine the circumstances that led to the incident and whether any additional offences apply. Air India Flight AI2379 From Phuket to Delhi Hits Turbulence, Several Passengers Injured (Videos).

Aviation Safety Protocols

Attempts to interfere with an aircraft's emergency exits or safety equipment are treated as serious offences under aviation law because they can jeopardise the safety of passengers, crew and flight operations. The latest incident has once again highlighted the importance of prompt crew response and strict enforcement of aviation safety regulations during in-flight emergencies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 06, 2026 06:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).