INCIDNET | Mistaken Identity Leads to Inflated Exit on Air China Flight

An Air China flight from Quzhou Airport (ZJUZ) to Chengdu (CTU) on July 4, 2024, took an unexpected turn when a passenger mistook an emergency exit door for the airplane restroom. This incident caused a minor stir and resulted in a canceled flight. The incident occurred on the tarmac as the plane, identified as flight CA2754, operated by an Airbus A320neo, awaited departure. A first-time flyer, according to police reports, became confused while looking for the restroom and mistakenly opened the emergency exit door. This action triggered the automatic deployment of the evacuation slide, a safety feature designed for rapid disembarkation in emergencies.

Understandably, the situation startled both passengers and crew. The flight attendants quickly ensured everyone's safety and disembarked the passengers through the standard airplane doors. The deployed evacuation slide necessitated the cancellation of the flight. Air China reportedly arranged hotel accommodations for the inconvenienced passengers and offered some form of compensation. The woman who opened the door was questioned by authorities, but her identity remains undisclosed.

This incident highlights the importance of clear signage and passenger education, especially for first-time flyers. Emergency exits are clearly marked with distinct symbols and instructions, and unlike bathroom doors, they are typically much heavier and require a different opening mechanism. The ramifications of tampering with an emergency exit are significant. Disarming the slide requires maintenance procedures, and grounding the aircraft for several days to ensure everything functions properly. 

Additionally, the woman may face financial repercussions. Aviation regulations in China, like many countries, impose hefty fines for tampering with emergency equipment. Estimates suggest she could be liable for up to £22,000 to cover the costs associated with the incident. While this incident caused a delay and inconvenience, it serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols on airplanes. Thankfully, the situation was resolved quickly and without injuries.