Did you hear about the passenger who tried to open an emergency exit door mid-flight? This article details the shocking mid-air incident that recently occurred on a flight to Sydney, where a passenger’s actions lead to serious charges of endangering the safety of an aircraft. Learn more about the legal repercussions and airline’s response to this alarming situation.
Passenger Charged After Allegedly attempting to Open emergency Exit Doors on Sydney-Bound Flight
Sydney, Australia – April 7, 2025
Mid-Air Mayhem: Passenger’s Actions Lead to Arrest
- A 46-year-old Jordanian national faces charges after allegedly attempting to open an emergency exit door on a flight to Sydney.
- the incident occurred on a flight arriving from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- The passenger reportedly tried to open two separate emergency exits during the flight.
- Crew and passengers restrained the man, who allegedly assaulted a member of the airline staff during the altercation.
Legal Repercussions: Facing Serious Charges
The man has been charged with two counts of endangering the safety of an aircraft and one count of assault. Each offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
AirAsia X responds: Safety Was Never Compromised
AirAsia X confirmed the incident involved a disruptive
passenger on flight D7220 from Kuala Lumpur.
Our cabin crew, who are professionally trained to respond to such situations, took all necessary steps to ensure the safety of everyone on board.
AirAsia X statement
The airline emphasized its commitment to safety.
At no time was the safety of guests or crew compromised.
AirAsia X statement
AirAsia X maintains a strict policy against inappropriate behavior.
AirAsia has a zero-tolerance policy for [alleged] inappropriate behavior of any kind and as per procedure alerted the AFP and relevant authorities to meet the aircraft on arrival in Sydney.
AirAsia X statement
The airline stated that the matter is now under investigation.
The matter is now with the relevant authorities and as such, we are unable to comment further.
AirAsia X statement
AFP’s Firm Stance: Zero Tolerance for Perilous Behavior
Davina Copelin, detective acting superintendent of AFP, addressed the incident.
The actions of this man could have had tragic consequences, and passengers and airplane staff shouldn’t have to put up with unruly, violent, or dangerous behaviour on flights.
Davina Copelin, detective acting superintendent of AFP
Ms. Copelin affirmed the AFP’s commitment to prosecuting such offenses.
The AFP will not hesitate to take action against people who engage in criminal behaviour on airplanes,especially where this behaviour has the potential to endanger the safety of passengers,crew or the flight itself.
Davina Copelin, detective acting superintendent of AFP
Echoes of Another Incident: A Troubling Trend?
This incident follows a similar event where a passenger on a Jetstar flight from Bali to melbourne allegedly attempted to open an emergency exit door, causing the plane to divert back to Bali.
Court Appearance: facing Justice
The Jordanian national was scheduled to appear in Parramatta Local Court on Sunday, April 6.
