Passenger arrested after attempting to open aircraft emergency exit at 30,000 feet

A passenger on a Batik Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Kochi, India, was arrested after attempting to open an emergency exit while the aircraft was cruising at 30,000 feet (approximately 9,100 meters).

Jamsheer Athanikkal, a 36-year-old Indian national, allegedly damaged the window panel and threatened passengers and crew during the incident on August 4. The attempt caused panic among those on board. The suspect was eventually subdued by passengers and crew using plastic zip ties before the pilot diverted the aircraft back to Malaysia.

Following his arrest, Athanikkal reportedly told police that he “felt like he wanted to die while flying.” Authorities are currently investigating the incident, with the suspect facing charges of attempted murder.