A 19-year-old South Korean man exhibited bizarre behavior during a flight from the Philippines to South Korea, attempting to open the aircraft’s door mid-flight
Approximately one hour into the red-eye flight from Cebu to Seoul, the South Korean man began acting strangely, causing concern among the crew members and fellow passengers.
Sensing the need for close monitoring, the staff promptly moved him to the front row, nearer to the exit door.
While seated in his new position, the man expressed discomfort, complaining of pressure on his chest. Suddenly, and without warning, he made a dash towards the emergency door, attempting to open it.
The quick response of the cabin crew proved vital in averting a potential disaster.
Reacting promptly to the man’s attempt to open the aircraft door, the vigilant cabin crew immediately subdued him. Employing a lasso rope and tie wraps, they effectively restrained him, ensuring the safety of all passengers for the remainder of the journey.
Thanks to the crew’s timely intervention, the door remained closed throughout the incident. This crucial action prevented any damage to the plane and safeguarded the well-being of the 180 passengers on board. Jeju Airlines later confirmed that none of the travelers suffered injuries during the ordeal.
Upon landing at Incheon Airport in Seoul on Monday, June 19, the staff promptly handed over the perpetrator to the local police at 7:30 am. The seriousness of the offense called for further legal actions.
The man now faces an accusation of violating the Aviation Security Act. An arrest warrant has been issued, marking the commencement of legal proceedings against him.
Following the man’s apprehension, an investigation by the Incheon Airport police took place. Noting his abnormal behavior, the authorities conducted a drug test and the results came back positive, indicating the presence of drugs in the man’s system.
While being transported to his arrest warrant hearing on Tuesday, June 20, the man spoke incoherently to the media. When questioned about his motive for attempting to open the door, he simply stated, “I felt I was being attacked.” His puzzling response added another layer of complexity to an already baffling incident.
To ascertain the type and quantity of drugs consumed by the perpetrator, the police have sent his hair and urine samples to the National Forensics Service.