A major security scare unfolded mid-air on September 22, when Air India Express Flight IX-1086 from Bengaluru to Varanasi faced an alleged hijacking attempt after a passenger tried to forcibly access the cockpit.
According to reports, the incident occurred when a youth travelling with eight companions attempted to open the cockpit door during the flight. Shockingly, the accused even entered the correct passcode to unlock the door. However, the alert captain, fearing a possible hijack attempt, refused to open the cockpit door, strictly following aviation safety protocols.
The tense situation continued until the aircraft safely landed at Varanasi Airport, where the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) immediately detained the accused passenger along with his seven companions for interrogation. Police later confirmed that all nine individuals are being questioned to determine the motive behind the act.
Despite the frightening episode, all passengers onboard were unharmed, thanks to the crew’s swift action and adherence to international security protocols. Aviation experts have noted that the captain’s refusal to open the cockpit despite the correct passcode was a critical decision that may have averted a catastrophe.
In a statement, Air India Express acknowledged the incident, clarifying that while a passenger had indeed approached the cockpit entry area, the airline’s robust safety and security measures were not breached.
“We are aware of media reports regarding an incident on one of our flights to Varanasi, where a passenger approached the cockpit entry area while looking for the lavatory. We reaffirm that robust safety and security protocols are in place and were not compromised. The matter was reported to the relevant authorities on landing and is currently under investigation,” an airline spokesperson said.
Sources said the passenger in question was not travelling alone but with a group of eight others, all of whom were handed over to CISF after landing. Investigators are now examining whether this was a genuine case of confusion, as claimed in some reports, or a deliberate act with possible malicious intent.
While relief has poured in that the passengers are safe, the incident has raised serious concerns.
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