PIA Passenger Arrested in Paris After Attacking Flight Attendant for Smoking Violation

ISLAMABAD: A passenger aboard Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK749, en route from Islamabad to Paris, was arrested by French authorities after violently assaulting a female flight attendant for stopping him from smoking during the flight.

The incident occurred mid-air when the passenger, identified as Safeer, repeatedly ignored multiple warnings from the cabin crew about the no-smoking policy. The situation escalated when a female flight attendant intervened, and the passenger became aggressive, verbally abusing the staff before physically attacking her. He twisted her arm and struck her on the back.

The passenger also reportedly attempted to attack the flight attendant and the captain, but the crew was able to snatch the cigarette from him. The captain immediately contacted French air traffic controllers to inform them of the situation and requested law enforcement presence upon landing at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Upon arrival, French police boarded the aircraft, arrested the passenger, and conducted a medical examination of the affected crew members. A formal police report was filed against the passenger.

A PIA spokesperson praised the professionalism of the airline’s staff, stating, “The crew and captain acted swiftly to defuse the situation and protect the passengers.”

The passenger has since been blacklisted by PIA and will not be allowed to travel with the airline in the future. The spokesperson also emphasized the strictness of French laws in such matters, expressing confidence that there would be no leniency in the case.

Read more: PIA UK Flight Ban Remains: Reasons Unveiled!

PIA reiterated its commitment to the safety and dignity of its staff and passengers, warning that any violation of aviation protocols would be dealt with in strict accordance with international law.