An emergency slide of an aircraft preparing to disembark passengers was unexpectedly deployed due to a dispute among the crew.
On May 1st (CST), China’s Jimu News reported that the emergency escape slide of China Eastern Airlines’ Airbus A320 passenger plane suddenly spread out on the runway. The plane was heading to the boarding bridge after landing at Shanghai Pudong Airport from Xi’an on the evening of April 28th.
One source explained, “The emergency escape slide was suddenly triggered due to a dispute among the cabin crew,” and “Passengers heading to Pudong Airport were on board the aircraft.”
Another source reported, “One crew member opened the emergency slide after a dispute with another crew member.”
There were no casualties, but it was reported that the aircraft stopped flying to prepare for any possible situations.
Eastern Airlines said they quickly handled the issue according to procedures to ensure passenger safety as the situation grew.
The airline stated, “In the initial investigation, it was found that a dispute among the crew caused the incident. We are conducting additional investigations and will fine those responsible according to the investigation.” They added, “We deeply apologize for this incident. The passengers of the flight were properly protected through the company’s swift response.”
Chinese lawyers explained, “If the crew deliberately damaged the emergency slide, it could be considered a crime of intentional property damage.”
They added, “If the damage is large, the person responsible could face imprisonment between three to seven years,” and “Considering that the repair cost of the A320’s emergency slide exceeds 100,000 yuan (approximately $15,000), which is more than the threshold for significant damage of 50,000 yuan (approximately $7,500), the person responsible could face a heavier fine.”
