A passenger aboard Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK749 from Islamabad to Paris was arrested by French authorities after he violently attacked a female flight attendant during the journey for stopping him from smoking on the plane.
The incident occurred mid-air when the passenger, identified as Safeer, attempted to smoke despite multiple warnings from the cabin crew. According to the PIA spokesperson, the passenger became aggressive when a female flight attendant intervened to enforce the no-smoking rule. He not only ignored the warnings but also verbally abused the staff before physically assaulting the stewardess — twisting her arm and striking her on the back.
The passenger also attacked the flight attendant and the captain, but they snatched the cigarette from the passenger. The captain of the flight immediately informed French air traffic controllers about the situation and requested law enforcement presence upon landing at Paris airport.
On arrival in Paris, French police boarded the aircraft, arrested the unruly passenger, and recorded the statements of the affected crew members. A medical examination was conducted, and a formal police report was filed against the passenger.
“PIA staff acted with professionalism throughout the ordeal,” the airline’s spokesperson stated. “The crew and captain managed to defuse the situation and protect fellow passengers.”
The spokesperson confirmed that the passenger has been blacklisted and will no longer be allowed to travel with the national airline. “French laws are very strict in such matters, and we hope no leniency will be shown in this case.”
The airline reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of its staff and passengers, warning that any violation of aviation protocols would be dealt with firmly in accordance with international law.
