A male passenger accidentally opened an exit door of Vietnam Airline flight VN319, headed to Da Nang from Narita, Tokyo, during the process of boarding on Monday.

Illustrative photo (Source: VNA/VNS)

The plane had to stop for technical processing for two hours and 20 minutes, as it could not operate properly. A Vietnam Airlines representative then requested all passengers to return to the waiting room.

Immediately after the incident, Vietnam Airlines provided services and compensation to assist the affected passengers, according to regulations.

For passengers with connecting flights, Vietnam Airlines made arrangements on alternatives flights immediately to ensure they could stick to their schedule.

To avoid unfortunate incidents and ensure flight safety, Vietnam Airlines has recommended passengers to strictly follow the instructions of the airline staff and crew on the plane, and avoid opening the exit door when not required.

"The opening of the exit door will affect the safety and travel of all passengers on the flight, and violate regulations of air safety and security. Violators will be subject to administrative sanctions under Decree No.147/2013 / ND-CP dated October 30, 2013, of the Government," a representative of Vietnam Airlines said.

Such incidents lead to flight delays, delay in the chain, affect the quality of passenger services and incur additional costs for the aviation industry, according to the airline’s representative. 

(Source: VNS)