Batik Air passenger arrested after trying to open emergency exit on Kuala Lumpur‑Kochi flight

A passenger identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal, a 36‑year‑old resident of Kootannad in Kerala's Palakkad district, attempted to force open the emergency exit door and damaged its window panel on Batik Air flight OD231 en route from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi on the night of 5‑6 August 2026. The incident occurred at cruising altitude of about 35,000 ft. Cabin crew and other passengers quickly restrained him, preventing the door from opening and averting further danger.

After the aircraft landed safely at Kochi International Airport, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) took the suspect into custody and handed him over to the Nedumbassery police station. An FIR was filed, and he was booked under Section 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Section 11A of the Aircraft Act, and Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act for criminal intimidation, violation of aviation safety directives, and endangering public safety. No injuries were reported, and the flight completed its journey without further incident. Video clips of the episode circulated on social media after the landing.