MEXICO CITY — Initially, it may seem like just another instance of unruly behavior on an airplane. However, the story that unfolded at Mexico City International Airport on a recent Thursday is far from ordinary.
In an official statement released on Friday, the airport confirmed that a man had indeed opened an emergency exit and stepped out onto the wing of a plane that was parked and awaiting takeoff.
The man was subsequently handed over to the police, the airport authorities confirmed.
However, the narrative takes an unexpected turn as dozens of co-passengers rallied behind the man, signing a written statement that accused the airline of making them wait for four hours without ventilation or water due to a flight delay. Photos of the statement posted online reveal that the passengers believed the man acted “to protect everyone, with the support of everyone.”
The airport’s statement further clarified that “yesterday a passenger on a flight to Guatemala opened an emergency door on a plane while it was stationary at a remote position, stood on a wing and then re-entered the cabin, without affecting the aircraft or anyone else.”
Adhering to international security regulations, the man voluntarily surrendered to the authorities, the statement added.
Support for the man’s actions was widespread, with at least 77 passengers aboard the AeroMexico flight to Guatemala signing a statement handwritten on notebook paper. Photos of this statement were shared on social media platforms.
The statement read, “The delay and lack of air created conditions that endangered the health of the passengers. He saved our lives.”
An incident report filed with airport authorities largely corroborated this version of events.
The report stated, “Around 11:37 a.m., a Mexican airline reported the beginning of a disturbance due to passenger discontent on flight AM672. The flight had been due to lift off at 8:45 a.m. Thursday, but because of a maintenance alert on the plane, the captain had to return to the gate for the required maintenance.”
It further detailed, “The passengers were unhappy and one of them opened the emergency door and stepped out on the wing. This event required the plane to be changed.”
The airport authorities have not disclosed the identity of the man and have refrained from commenting on whether he is still in custody or if he faces any charges.
Flight tracking sites have confirmed that flight AM672 to Guatemala City was delayed for four hours and 56 minutes on that Thursday.
A video that appears to have been recorded aboard the flight shows passengers fanning themselves and requesting a flight attendant for water.
AeroMexico, the airline in question, has not yet responded to an email request for comment.
Agree Travelers should support this man for his audacity and sheer entertainment factor. It’s refreshing to see someone break free from the monotony of air travel and inject some excitement into our lives.