A passenger on board an IndiGo flight to Varanasi triggered a mid-air scare after allegedly attempting to open the aircraft's emergency exit door moments before landing. The pilot aborted the landing and took the aircraft back into the air before safely touching down minutes later, officials said.
Attempt to open emergency exit before landing
The incident occurred on IndiGo flight 6E-185 from Bengaluru, which was approaching Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport around 10.20 pm on Saturday. Officials said the passenger tried to tamper with the emergency exit just before touchdown.
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Acting quickly, the pilot executed a go-around, climbing back into the air to avoid any risk. The aircraft eventually landed safely at around 10:35 pm. The episode caused panic among more than 100 passengers onboard.
Authorities identified the passenger as Mohammad Adnan, 26. Officials said he had earlier attempted to tamper with the emergency exit shortly after departure from Bengaluru, but cabin crew members restrained him and managed to calm the situation.
Passenger taken into custody
After the aircraft landed safely, the passenger was handed over to airline security and the CISF before being transferred to local police. He was questioned by multiple security agencies.
During initial questioning, police said the accused claimed he was under the "influence of a ghost". He later told investigators that he did not realise pressing the emergency exit button could open the aircraft door.
Notice served to accused passenger
Police registered a case under Section 125 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) based on a complaint filed by IndiGo assistant security manager Devanshu Pratap Singh, said Phulpur station house officer Atul Kumar Singh.
Confirming the development, deputy commissioner of police (Gomti Zone) Akash Patel said, "After interrogation, a notice was served to the accused passenger. He was later handed over to his parents. Investigations are ongoing."
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Officials said standard safety procedures were followed, and the flight completed its journey without further incident.
