Overview

• The captain denied access, crew intervened, and the aircraft landed safely in Varanasi.
• CISF personnel and local police detained the passenger and his eight companions for interrogation on arrival.
• Air India Express reported the incident to authorities, stated that safeguards worked, and said a probe is underway.
• The passenger told crew he was looking for the lavatory and was a first‑time flyer, according to statements and sources.
• Reports differ on whether a correct cockpit passcode was entered, with Indian Express sources saying it was incorrect, and the airline is expected to refer the case to its committee under DGCA rules for possible no‑fly listing and legal action.