Authorities in Varanasi took a passenger into custody on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, after he allegedly attempted to open the emergency exit door during an IndiGo flight from Bengaluru. The incident occurred aboard flight 6E-2231, causing immediate concern among the crew and fellow travelers as the aircraft was mid-air.
Witnesses reported that the man suddenly rose from his seat and moved toward the emergency exit. He was quickly intercepted by cabin crew members and several passengers who managed to restrain him before he could compromise the integrity of the aircraft's pressurized cabin during the journey.
Following the intervention, the passenger was kept under close watch for the remainder of the flight to Uttar Pradesh. Upon landing at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, the airline's security personnel handed him over to the Central Industrial Security Force and local police officials for further investigation.
During initial questioning by law enforcement, the individual provided an unconventional explanation for his actions. He reportedly claimed that he was possessed by a ghost and had no control over his movements or his sudden attempt to exit the plane while it was at cruising altitude.
IndiGo confirmed the incident in a formal statement, noting that the safety of the flight was never compromised. The airline emphasized that its crew followed all standard operating procedures to handle the disruptive passenger and ensured a safe landing for every individual on board.
Police officials in Varanasi have registered a case against the passenger under various sections of the Aircraft Act. Investigators are currently looking into the man's background and have suggested that he may undergo a psychological evaluation to determine his actual mental state during the flight.
This event adds to a growing list of mid-air disturbances that have prompted calls for stricter enforcement of aviation security protocols. Aviation experts noted that while emergency doors are nearly impossible to open at high altitudes due to pressure differences, such attempts create significant safety risks.
The passenger remains in custody as legal proceedings begin in Varanasi. No other injuries were reported during the flight, and the aircraft was allowed to return to service following a routine safety inspection by technical teams.