Passenger Faces 10 Years in Prison for Opening Asiana Jet Door Mid-Flight

A South Korean airline passenger who caused panic by opening the emergency exit door of a plane mid-flight now faces the possibility of up to 10 years in prison. The 33-year-old Asiana Airlines flier was arrested for violating aviation security law after the incident, which was caught on video.

The man, identified as Lee, claimed that he opened the door because he felt “uncomfortable” and wanted to leave the plane quickly. He cited personal stress due to recently losing his job. However, his actions posed a serious risk to the safety of the flight and its passengers.

The Asiana Airlines Airbus A321-200 was on a one-hour flight from Jeju Island to Daegu, carrying approximately 200 people, including teenage track-and-field athletes en route to a competition. As the plane was preparing to land, Lee opened the emergency door while it was still 700 feet above the ground.

Authorities in Daegu, South Korea, where the plane eventually landed, have charged Lee with violating aviation security law. He expressed remorse for his actions, particularly towards the young passengers on board.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to aviation safety protocols and the severe consequences that can result from endangering the lives of passengers during a flight.