A security incident occurred on Air India Express flight IX-1086 from Bengaluru to Varanasi when a passenger approached the cockpit door mid-air, allegedly while looking for the lavatory. The airline issued a statement saying safety protocols were not breached. They clarified that the passenger, identified only as “Mr Mani”, claimed he was a first-time flyer and did not realize the seriousness of his actions.

According to CISF officials, during the incident the person mistakenly pressed the security code of the cockpit door, which alerted the crew.  The pilot reportedly refused entry, treating the situation with caution. Upon landing in Varanasi, the passenger and eight of his fellow travelers (nine in total) were handed over to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) for questioning.  Authorities said the matter is under investigation.

Flight IX-1086 departed Bengaluru around 8:00 AM and landed in Varanasi approximately 10:30 AM.  The airline emphasized that robust safety and security measures were always in place and were not compromised during the episode.