Initially, it may seem like a typical case of disruptive behavior unfolding onboard an aircraft.
The Mexico City International Airport released a statement on Friday acknowledging an incident involving a man who opened an emergency exit and walked onto the wing of an AeroMexico plane while it was parked and awaiting takeoff on Thursday.
According to the airport's statement, the man was subsequently handed over to the police for further action.
However, a different perspective emerged when numerous fellow passengers signed a handwritten statement, suggesting that the airline's prolonged delay of four hours without adequate ventilation or water prompted the man's actions. Photos of the statement shared online indicate that passengers believed he acted "to protect everyone, with the support of everyone."
The airport's official statement clarified that the incident occurred when a passenger on a flight bound for Guatemala opened the emergency door while the aircraft was stationary at a remote location, stepped onto the wing, and then re-entered the cabin without causing harm to the aircraft or passengers.
Following standard security protocols, the individual voluntarily surrendered to the authorities.
A handwritten statement signed by at least 77 passengers aboard an AeroMexico flight to Guatemala City expressed gratitude for the man's actions, citing the delay and lack of air circulation as conditions that jeopardized passenger health. The statement attributed to him the act of saving their lives.
An incident report filed with airport authorities corroborated the passengers' version of events, detailing discontent among passengers due to the prolonged delay caused by a maintenance alert on the aircraft.
While the identity of the individual involved was not disclosed by airport authorities, there was no confirmation regarding their current custody status or any pending charges.
Flight tracking data confirmed the substantial delay of flight AM672 to Guatemala City, lasting nearly five hours on Thursday.
A video captured aboard the flight depicted passengers visibly distressed, attempting to alleviate discomfort by fanning themselves and requesting water from flight attendants.
As of now, AeroMexico has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
