Passenger Attempts to Open Emergency Door Mid-Air on Air France Flight from Paris to Bengaluru

A distressing incident occurred on a July 15 Air France flight from Paris to Bengaluru, where a passenger attempted to open one of the emergency doors while the aircraft was mid-air. The incident, which took place approximately four hours before the scheduled landing in Bengaluru, led to the subsequent arrest of the individual involved.

The passenger in question, identified as Venkat Mohit Pathipati, a 29-year-old from Andhra Pradesh, was on a personal visit to Bengaluru and worked for a private firm in the United States. It was during this international journey that his actions caused alarm among the crew and other passengers.

According to the complaint filed by the duty manager of Air France India, he tried to pull the lever on the back door located on the left side of the flight. Swift action from vigilant crew members thwarted his attempt, ensuring that the door remained securely shut throughout the flight. Following a safe landing at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru, the complaint was immediately lodged.

The incident caused panic among fellow passengers who witnessed his actions. In response to his reckless behavior, legal actions have been taken against him. He has been booked under Sections 336 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with a rash or negligent act that endangers the life or personal safety of others, as well as Section 29 of the Aircraft Rules 1937, which pertains to disorderly conduct in an aircraft that imperils the safety of the aircraft or its passengers.

Authorities at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) promptly handed Pathipati over to the police. However, after a bail hearing, he was released on bail from the police station.

Such incidents of unruly behavior on flights are taken very seriously by airline authorities and law enforcement agencies due to the potential risks they pose to the safety and well-being of everyone on board. The airline industry maintains strict protocols and regulations to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members, and any violation of these rules is treated as a grave offense.

It is crucial for passengers to understand and adhere to the rules and guidelines set forth by airlines, not only to avoid legal repercussions but also to contribute to a safe and pleasant travel experience for everyone.