Air India flight hijack attempt foiled by Captain’s alertness; 9 detained

Varanasi: A passenger attempted to open the cockpit door on an Air India flight from Bengaluru to Varanasi, causing a commotion. The passenger entered the cockpit passcode correctly, but the captain, fearing a hijacking attempt, refused to open the door. The passenger was traveling with eight other passengers. All nine passengers were handed over to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) after the plane landed. Air India's Response and Security Arrangements Air India confirmed receiving information about the incident through media reports. The company stated that a passenger on the flight to Varanasi had approached the cockpit in search of the restroom. Air India assured passengers that strict security measures were in place on the aircraft and no security breaches occurred. The relevant authorities were informed of the incident upon landing, and an investigation has been initiated. Details Of Incident And Further Action Air India Express flight IX-1086 departed from Bengaluru for Varanasi after 8 a.m. as soon as the plane landed in Varanasi, the accused passenger was handed over to CISF personnel. It is currently unclear why the passenger attempted to enter the cockpit. Captain's Presence Of Mind The captain's presence of mind and alertness in this incident is being praised. The captain's timely refusal to open the cockpit door ensured the safety of the aircraft and passengers. Such incidents pose challenges to aviation security, but timely and appropriate action can avert serious accidents. The attempt to access the cockpit on an Air India aircraft is a serious security incident, but the captain's alertness and the promptness of security personnel averted a major tragedy. The investigation is ongoing, and further action will be taken as needed. Passengers are also urged to adhere to aviation security rules and immediately report any suspicious activity to the authorities.