Thai Military Officer on KL-Bangkok Flight Allegedly Tries to Open Plane Door, Gets Restrained & Tied to Seat

A disruptive passenger was restrained and tied to his seat after allegedly attempting to open an aircraft door during a flight from Malaysia to Thailand.

The male passenger reportedly began shouting while the aircraft was cruising at around 32,000 feet. Cabin crew took timely measures to restrain the man and secure him to his seat using cable ties.

The passenger works for the Thai Ministry of Defence

Dramatic footage shows the passenger, dressed in a light brown shirt and black shorts, being held down by the crew on 9 August. Even after being restrained, he was repeatedly heard shouting “landing” and demanding that the aircraft land, causing panic among fellow passengers.

The passenger was later identified as a military officer holding the rank of lieutenant, attached to the Office of Defence Policy and Planning under Thailand’s Ministry of Defence.

The officer had been experiencing stress related to personal matters

In a statement issued on 10 August, the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence confirmed that the individual was a civil servant under the Ministry of Defence and said he was receiving medical treatment.

The ministry also stated that disciplinary action would be taken in accordance with official regulations, according to the Bangkok Post.

“Following the incident, officials intervened to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. His relatives were contacted, and he was taken to Phramongkutklao Hospital for examination and treatment,” the statement said.

The ministry added that appropriate personnel action would be considered in accordance with government regulations and the findings of the investigation. Possible measures include demotion, dismissal or transfer.

Flight-tracking data showed the flight departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 6:05 PM local time and arrived at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok at 7:02 PM, earlier than its scheduled arrival time. No injuries were reported in the incident.

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