Introduction: In an unusual incident, a SpiceJet passenger found himself stuck inside an airplane lavatory for nearly an hour during a flight from Mumbai to Bengaluru. The incident occurred due to a malfunctioning door lock, creating an unexpected challenge for the passenger and the airline crew.
The Incident Unfolds: After the seat belt sign was turned off post-takeoff from Mumbai at 2:13 am, a male passenger made his way to the restroom but found himself trapped due to a malfunction in the lavatory door lock. The situation persisted until the aircraft landed in Bengaluru at 3:10 am, where technicians were finally able to resolve the issue.
SpiceJet’s Response: SpiceJet expressed regret over the incident and assured that the passenger would receive a full refund. The airline emphasized that the passenger was provided with assistance and guidance throughout the entire journey.
SpiceJet’s Statement: “On 16 January, a passenger unfortunately got stuck inside the lavatory for about an hour on SpiceJet flight operating from Mumbai to Bengaluru, while the aircraft was airborne due to a malfunction in the door lock. Throughout the journey, our crew provided assistance and guidance to the passenger.”
Crew’s Efforts: Unable to open the door, the crew passed a note to the trapped passenger, assuring him not to panic. The note conveyed their attempts to open the door and advised the passenger to secure himself on the commode lid until landing, where an engineer would be available to assist.
“After failing to open the door, the crew passed a note to the passenger asking him not to panic.”
Resolution at Bengaluru Airport: Upon landing at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, an engineer successfully opened the lavatory door, and immediate medical support was provided to the passenger.
Conclusion: SpiceJet expressed regret and apologized for the inconvenience caused to the passenger, highlighting the unexpected challenges that can arise even during routine flights. The incident underscores the importance of prompt and effective responses from airline crews in handling unforeseen circumstances for the safety and well-being of passengers.