A SpiceJet passenger was stuck inside the aircraft's lavatory for around an hour mid-flight due to a malfunction of the door lock. The incident occurred onboard the flight from Mumbai to Bengaluru on Tuesday, and the airline is providing a full refund to the passenger, according to a SpiceJet spokesperson.
"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," said the statement.
Realising that a man was trapped inside, the crew made several attempts at opening the door from outside, but to no avail. The crew then decided to pass a note under the toilet door to calm the passenger who was in a state of shock.
"Sir, we tried our best to open the door. However, we could not open. Do not panic, we are landing in a few minutes. So please close the commode lid and sit on it and secure yourself. As soon as the main door is open, engineer will come. Do not panic," read the note, which has gone viral on social media.
Soon after landing at the Bengaluru airport, an engineer opened the lavatory door to the passenger's rescue.
"Throughout the journey, our crew provided assistance and guidance to the passenger. Upon arrival, an engineer opened the lavatory door, and the passenger received immediate medical support," the SpiceJet statement said.
The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused and said the passenger is being provided a full refund.
With inputs from PTI