Chaos erupted at Vietnam's Noi Bai International Airport when two passengers attempted to board a flight without valid tickets, causing a major delay and leaving fellow travellers stranded.
The incident occurred as Vietnam Airlines flight VN-A588 prepared to depart from Hanoi to the coastal city of Nha Trang. Airport security staff spotted the two individuals attempting to bypass check-in procedures and sneak onto the aircraft.
Security Scramble Causes Major Disruption
Authorities immediately launched a full security review, requiring all passengers to disembark while baggage was thoroughly rechecked. This precautionary measure led to a three-hour delay, much to the frustration of those on board.
"We were all ready to take off when suddenly they made everyone get off the plane," one passenger told local media. "It was incredibly frustrating after we'd already gone through all the proper security checks."
Airport Officials Tighten Procedures
The attempted breach has prompted airport authorities to review their security protocols. While the motives of the two individuals remain unclear, the incident highlights potential vulnerabilities in boarding procedures.
Vietnam Airlines has apologised to affected passengers but emphasised that safety remains their top priority. "While we regret the inconvenience caused, we must always err on the side of caution when security is concerned," a spokesperson said.
Travel Industry Reacts
The travel sector has expressed concern about the incident, with experts warning that such breaches could undermine passenger confidence. "This shows that even with modern security systems, human factors remain crucial," said aviation analyst Nguyen Minh.
The two individuals involved now face potential fines and travel restrictions as authorities continue their investigation into the security lapse.
