First-time flyer opens plane's emergency exit door 'for fresh air'

A Chinese airline passenger opened the emergency exit as his plane was about to take off because he ‘just wanted fresh air.’

17:12 18 December 2014

A first-time flyer in China has opened the plane’s emergency exit door as it was about to take off because he “just wanted fresh air.”  Staff members said that the man had not realized that opening the door was dangerous.

The incident took place just days after another passenger on another domestic flight opened the emergency exit moments after his plane has landed because he was in a hurry to get out.

Because of this, the Guardian reported, China is growing concerned that the behaviour of its travellers is damaging the image of the country.

“It was the first time he had flown,” an airline press officer told the Southern Metropolis Daily newspaper.

“He did not cause delays or any other direct losses to the airline.”

The spokesperson added: “There are warnings on the emergency exit and there are instructions on how to open the exit in case of emergency. However, the passenger didn’t do it deliberately.”

Before taking off, the man who is in his 50s was briefed by cabin crew and was transferred to another seat.