A startling incident unfolded at the Mexico City International Airport as a man opened an emergency exit and walked onto a parked plane’s wing, sparking a mixed reaction from passengers. The airport confirmed the incident on Friday, revealing that the man had taken this unusual step on a stationary aircraft bound for Guatemala.
The airport authorities stated, “Yesterday, a passenger on a flight to Guatemala opened an emergency door on a plane while it was stationary at a remote position, stood on a wing, and then re-entered the cabin, without affecting the aircraft or anyone else. In line with international security regulations, this person turned himself over to the authorities.”
However, what sets this incident apart is the response from fellow passengers who signed a handwritten statement, asserting that they were made to wait for four hours without proper ventilation or water while the flight was delayed. According to the statement posted online, the passengers expressed support for the man’s actions, believing he did it “to protect everyone, with the support of everyone.” At least 77 passengers on the AeroMexico flight joined in signing the statement.
“The delay and lack of air created conditions that endangered the health of the passengers. He saved our lives,” the statement declared.
An incident report filed with airport authorities seemed to corroborate the passengers’ grievances. The report stated, “Around 11:37 a.m., a Mexican airline reported the beginning of a disturbance due to passenger discontent on flight AM672. The flight had been due to lift off at 8:45 a.m. Thursday, but because of a maintenance alert on the plane, the captain had to return to the gate for the required maintenance.”
“The passengers were unhappy and one of them opened the emergency door and stepped out on the wing,” the report added. “This event required the plane to be changed.”
As for the identity of the man involved and whether he faces any charges or remains in custody, airport authorities have not provided further details. Flight tracking data confirmed that AeroMexico Flight AM672 to Guatemala City suffered a delay of 4 hours and 56 minutes on Thursday.
A video recorded during the flight depicted passengers struggling with the heat and discomfort, prompting some to request water from the flight attendant.