An EasyJet flight from Lyon, France, to Porto, Portugal, was forced to turn back after a passenger tried to break into the cockpit, French police and the airline have said.
The incident occurred shortly after Flight EJU4429 departed from Lyon late yesterday.
According to authorities, the 26-year-old Portuguese man displayed erratic behaviour mid-air, prompting fellow passengers to intervene and restrain him until the aircraft returned safely.
“Flight EJU4429 from Lyon to Porto returned shortly after takeoff due to the behaviour of a passenger onboard,” EasyJet said in a statement. “The flight was met by police on arrival, and once the passenger was removed, it continued to Porto.”
Police confirmed that the man underwent medical examinations, which revealed he was suffering from delirium and airsickness. He was admitted to a local hospital in Lyon for treatment.
No injuries were reported among the other passengers or crew during the incident, though authorities described the episode as “potentially dangerous.” French police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the passenger’s medical condition and actions during the flight.
The airline said it was cooperating fully with authorities and reassured travellers that such incidents are extremely rare. EasyJet added that its cabin crew are trained to manage in-flight emergencies, including medical or behavioural disturbances among passengers.
Experts note that incidents involving passengers attempting to access the cockpit are highly unusual but highlight the importance of vigilance and prompt action by both crew and fellow travellers. Aviation safety regulations require that cockpit doors remain locked during flight to prevent unauthorised access, a measure implemented globally after the 9/11 attacks.
The flight resumed its journey to Porto once the passenger had been safely removed and medical teams had cleared the aircraft. EasyJet said all passengers arrived at their destination without further incident.
This case adds to a small but growing number of in-flight emergencies involving passenger health or behavioural issues in recent years, prompting airlines to review safety protocols and crew training.
M10News Travel Desk | Contact: travel@m10news.com
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