Korean Air announced on December 15 a zero-tolerance policy toward passengers tampering with aircraft emergency exits, warning of criminal charges to bolster aviation safety. The flag carrier is responding to a rise in such incidents that threaten flight security. It plans to pursue prosecutions, seek civil damages, and impose travel bans on violators.
Korean Air stated on December 15, 2025, that it will adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward passengers who tamper with aircraft emergency exits, emphasizing criminal charges against violators to enhance aviation safety. The national flag carrier highlighted a rise in such incidents, which seriously endanger flights, noting 14 cases of tampering or attempted tampering over the past two years.
The airline pointed to a widely reported 2023 incident involving Asiana Airlines, where a passenger opened an emergency exit door mid-flight on a plane approaching Daegu International Airport from Jeju Island. Despite increased awareness from that event, unauthorized door tampering has persisted.
South Korea's Aviation Security Act bans passengers from touching aircraft doors, exits, or onboard equipment, with penalties of up to 10 years in prison for violations. Korean Air plans to refer all cases for criminal prosecution, pursue civil damages for actual losses, and impose travel bans on offenders.
This measure reflects broader efforts to uphold safety standards in the aviation sector. The company urged passengers to strictly adhere to safety rules, underscoring the grave risks such actions pose to flight security.
