KOCHI: A passenger was arrested for allegedly attempting to open the emergency exit of a Kuala Lumpur-Kochi flight, damaging its window panel and threatening fellow passengers and cabin crew.The accused was identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal, who was travelling on Batik Air flight OD231 from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi on Wednesday.According to the FIR, the incident occurred between 9.30pm and 11.05pm while the aircraft was in flight. news agency PTI reported.The FIR alleged that Athanikkal tried to force open the aircraft’s emergency exit, damaged its window panel and threatened fellow passengers, thereby endangering the safety of those on board.Cabin crew intervened and restrained the passenger, police said.The case was registered on a complaint lodged by Batik Air’s security in-charge at Kochi, and the accused was arrested after the flight landed early on Thursday.Police said he has been booked under Section 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal intimidation, Section 11A of the Aircraft Act for violating safety or security directions, and Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act for acts endangering public safety.Further investigation is underway.Cochin International Airport Limited said the passenger was initially detained by Central Industrial Security Force personnel after the flight arrived at around 2.40am and was later handed over to the police.“After disembarkation, he was taken into custody by CISF personnel and handed over to the Nedumbassery Police Station for further legal action,” the CIAL statement said.CIAL said the airline had initiated the necessary procedures in accordance with the applicable regulations.“Following the required inspection and repairs, the aircraft was cleared for operations and has since departed on its return service,” the statement added.(With agency inputs)
