Air travel can be stressful, and some passengers resort to unusual practices to ensure a safe journey. However, a recent incident in China has taken the cake for bizarre pre-flight rituals. A domestic flight from Sanya to Beijing was delayed for over four hours after a passenger threw coins into the plane’s engine, believing it would bring good luck.
The incident, reported by CNN, involved a China Southern Airlines flight (CZ8805) originally scheduled to depart on March 6th at 10 am local time. According to Chinese state media, a passenger allegedly threw “three to five” coins into the engine, prompting a mandatory inspection and subsequent delay.
This isn’t the first time such a superstition has caused travel disruptions. Similar incidents have been reported in China over the past few years, with passengers throwing coins at planes for good luck. In October 2023, another China Southern Airlines flight faced a delay in Guangzhou after a passenger was spotted tossing coins towards the aircraft. Likewise, in 2021, a GX Airlines flight was cancelled entirely when red paper-wrapped coins were discovered near a plane.
China Southern Airlines has taken a strong stance against this practice, calling it “uncivilized behavior” that threatens aviation safety. The airline issued a statement on Weibo, China’s largest social media platform, warning passengers of the consequences and the potential for punishment.
While the passenger’s intentions might have been well-meaning, throwing objects into an airplane engine is a serious safety hazard. Coins could potentially damage delicate engine components or disrupt airflow, leading to malfunctions or even accidents. Thankfully, in this case, the coins were retrieved, and a thorough inspection confirmed the engine’s functionality before allowing the flight to proceed.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder for passengers: superstitions and good luck charms have no place near airplanes. Pre-flight safety briefings and increased awareness campaigns could help educate travelers about the dangers of such actions. Ultimately, prioritizing safety procedures and common sense will ensure a smooth and worry-free travel experience for everyone on board.