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A Bengaluru–Varanasi Air India Express flight witnessed an unusual security incident on Monday morning when a passenger allegedly attempted to enter the cockpit while searching for the lavatory. The flight, IX1086, had taken off from Bengaluru at 8 am and landed safely in Varanasi at around 10:30 am.
Airline’s Response
Confirming the incident, Air India Express issued a statement saying:
"We are aware of media reports regarding an incident on one of our flights to Varanasi, where a passenger approached the cockpit entry area while looking for the lavatory."
The airline stressed that robust safety and security protocols were in place and at no point were they compromised. Upon landing, the matter was reported to the relevant authorities and is now under investigation.
Security Always a Priority
While the incident was not classified as a deliberate security breach, it once again highlighted the importance of passenger awareness and cabin vigilance. Airlines maintain strict cockpit access protocols, and any breach even accidental must be reported and probed to ensure safety standards remain uncompromised.
Not the First Incident
This is not the first time Air India Express has faced such a situation. In June 2024, a 25-year-old passenger on a Kozhikode–Bahrain flight attempted to open an aircraft door mid-air, forcing an emergency landing in Mumbai. The man was also accused of assaulting crew members during the chaos.
Smooth Landing, Strong Assurance
Monday’s episode ended without disruption to flight operations or passenger safety. The airline reassured travellers that their safety remains the top priority and all incidents, even inadvertent ones, are handled with utmost seriousness.
