A passenger on a Batik Air flight from Malaysia to India was detained by fellow travelers and crew on August 7 after allegedly attempting to open an emergency exit door at cruising altitude. The man, identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal, 36, also reportedly threatened passengers and crew.
According to police, Athanikkal, seated in 12A, attempted to open the exit door without provocation while the plane was at approximately 30,000 feet. The attempt resulted in a cracked window and significant damage to the exit window panel. Video circulating on social media captured the scene, showing passengers and crew members restraining Athanikkal with zip ties.
Athanikkal told authorities that he was traveling to see his newborn child. Following the incident, he was arrested upon the flight's arrival at Kochi Airport. Initial charges included criminal intimidation and failure to follow safety directions. These charges were later upgraded to include an attempted murder charge, as authorities stated the act could have endangered the lives of all onboard.