Emergency Exit Attempt on Kochi-Bound Flight Lands Passenger in Attempt-to-Murder Case

Police have added an attempt-to-murder charge against a passenger who allegedly tried to force open the emergency exit of a Kuala Lumpur-Kochi flight, damaged a window panel and threatened fellow passengers and cabin crew, officials said on Saturday.

The accused, identified as Jamsheer Athanikkal of Koottanad in Palakkad, was travelling on Batik Air flight OD231 from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi on Wednesday. According to police, Athanikkal allegedly attempted to open the aircraft’s emergency exit and damaged its window panel, potentially putting the lives of passengers and crew at risk.

The cabin crew intervened and restrained him. He was arrested after the aircraft landed at Kochi airport on Thursday. The case was initially registered under Section 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal intimidation, Section 11A of the Aircraft Act for violating safety or security directions, and Section 118(e) of the Kerala Police Act for acts endangering public safety.

Police subsequently invoked the attempt-to-murder provision, citing the potential danger posed to passengers by the alleged actions. Investigators are also probing the motive behind the incident. Police plan to approach the Angamaly Judicial First Class Magistrate on Monday seeking custody of Athanikkal for further questioning. They are also expected to seek permission for a mental health assessment as part of the investigation.

During preliminary questioning, Athanikkal allegedly told police that he had felt like dying while travelling on the flight. Officials said there was no apparent provocation during the journey and that his health and family history are being examined. Police are recording statements from passengers and attempting to obtain statements from cabin crew members, who are currently abroad. Officials said Athanikkal allegedly turned violent when produced before the magistrate.

He had reportedly worked in Malaysia for around 10 years at a company owned by a friend and was travelling to Kerala to meet his newborn child.

Investigators said additional charges could be invoked if further evidence emerges, while information gathered by other state and central agencies may be used for a broader probe.