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“Let Me Keep My Bag or I’ll Crash the Plane”: Doctor’s Threat Delays Bengaluru Flight, Sparks Aviation Security Alarm
Bengaluru | June 20, 2025
What was meant to be a routine domestic flight turned into a full-blown security scare at Kempegowda International Airport on Thursday, when a female passenger on board an Air India flight to Surat issued a chilling threat: “Let me keep my bag or I will crash the plane.”
The bizarre incident, which unfolded just before takeoff, forced the airline to delay the flight by nearly two hours, triggered an urgent response from CISF security forces, and led to the deboarding and arrest of the passenger, who has since been identified as Dr. Vyas Hiral Mohanbhai, a 36-year-old resident of Yelahanka, Bengaluru.
An Argument Over a Bag Turns Airborne Threat
According to official sources and eyewitnesses, the incident began with a disagreement over cabin baggage placement. Dr. Vyas, who was reportedly carrying a large handbag, insisted that the bag be stored in a space designated for airline crew use.
When politely asked by the cabin crew to relocate her bag or stow it appropriately, Dr. Vyas became agitated, raising her voice and asserting that she would not move unless her demand was met. Tensions escalated when she allegedly uttered, loud enough for passengers nearby to hear:
“If you don’t let me keep my bag here, I will crash the aircraft.”
Shocked cabin crew immediately reported the threat to the flight captain, who invoked emergency protocol, halting the takeoff and requesting intervention from airport security and CISF personnel.
Swift Action Prevents Panic, Passenger Deboarded
The aircraft, which had just completed boarding and was preparing for taxi clearance, remained grounded while CISF officers boarded and escorted Dr. Vyas off the flight.
Passengers were temporarily held on board during the incident but were later given clearance to disembark briefly during the security verification.
Air India issued a statement noting that “the safety of passengers and crew remains the airline’s top priority” and thanked security agencies for their prompt response.
Known for Previous Public Disturbances
Investigations revealed that this was not the first time Dr. Vyas had exhibited disruptive behavior. According to local police sources, she has a known history of public confrontations and behavioral disturbances in medical and civic environments.
Upon being deboarded, she was taken to the airport police station, where she allegedly continued to act aggressively, verbally abusing officers and refusing to cooperate during the initial inquiry.
She now faces charges under the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Civil Aviation Act, as well as sections of the IPC related to criminal intimidation, public nuisance, and threatening safety of public transportation.
Aviation Community Responds
The incident has reignited a larger discussion within India’s aviation sector regarding the rising number of in-flight disruptions linked to passengers’ non-compliance and mental health concerns.
Speaking to reporters, a senior official from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) remarked:
“We’ve seen a steady uptick in unruly passenger behavior post-pandemic. Airlines and security forces have been advised to stay alert and report even minor disturbances.”
Flight attendants' associations have also renewed demands for stricter guidelines and quicker enforcement, stating that delays in penal action often embolden repeat offenders.
Passenger Experience Marred, Flight Resumes Late
The affected flight, AI-5403, was carrying over 120 passengers and was scheduled to depart at 9:20 AM. It finally took off around 11:10 AM, after a full cabin inspection and clearance from CISF.
Several passengers shared their frustration with the delay but also acknowledged the seriousness of the situation.
“At first we thought it was a technical delay. Then we saw security coming in. We’re just thankful they acted quickly,” said Rohit Kumar, a businessman traveling to Surat.
Legal Ramifications & Mental Health Questions
Legal experts note that threats made aboard aircraft—even if not accompanied by physical action—can have severe consequences under India’s civil aviation laws.
While police have confirmed the FIR registration, mental health professionals are also being consulted to assess the passenger’s psychological state.
“There is a possibility of undiagnosed stress disorders or personality issues,” a senior psychiatrist from Bengaluru said anonymously.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Civil Aviation?
Thursday’s scare highlights the fragile nature of in-flight security, where even a verbal outburst can lead to operational paralysis. As the aviation industry attempts to rebuild trust and efficiency in the post-pandemic era, passenger behavior and mental wellness screening could become focal points of future safety reforms.
For now, authorities remain tight-lipped about the extent of penalties Dr. Vyas may face. But her actions have left a lasting impression — on passengers, airline staff, and the aviation watchdog alike.