A shocking aviation incident unfolded at Chennai International Airport early Sunday when a passenger opened an emergency exit door and jumped out of a moving aircraft shortly after landing.
The incident involved an Air Arabia flight arriving from Sharjah with over 200 passengers on board. According to airport officials, the aircraft had already touched down around 3:23 am and was taxiing slowly towards the terminal when the passenger suddenly opened the emergency exit and leapt onto the taxiway.
The unexpected act caused panic among passengers and crew members inside the aircraft. The pilot immediately brought the plane to a halt and alerted airport authorities. Security personnel, including Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officials, rushed to the spot and detained the passenger.
Preliminary reports suggest that the man may have been unwell during the flight. Officials said he had complained of nausea and reportedly vomited twice before the incident, which may have influenced his behaviour. However, authorities are also examining other possible factors, including his mental condition.
Despite the alarming situation, no injuries were reported and there was no damage to the aircraft. Officials confirmed that the incident occurred on the taxiway and not on the main runway.
As a precautionary measure, airport authorities temporarily shut down the main runway for about an hour, leading to delays and diversion of a few flights. Operations resumed after safety checks were completed.
The passenger has been taken into custody and is being questioned by police. Aviation authorities have launched a detailed investigation into how the emergency exit was opened during taxiing and whether there was any lapse in safety protocols.
The incident has raised serious concerns about onboard safety and passenger screening, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of aviation security measures to prevent such dangerous occurrences in the future.
