A man managed to board a flight from Vienna to China without a passport or ticket, reportedly hiding in the aircraft’s toilet for the entire journey, airport authorities and police have confirmed.

The incident took place on 5 February.

The stowaway was discovered upon landing in Shenzhen and handed over to Chinese authorities before being sent back to Austria.

Security Checks and Investigation

Vienna Airport officials confirmed the man had gone through a security screening before making his way onto the aircraft.

“The individual was demonstrably subjected to a proper security screening and checked for dangerous or prohibited items,” Vienna Airport said in a statement.

Authorities believe the man, an Afghan national, evaded border control and the boarding process by blending in with other passengers.

After being returned to Austria, he was questioned by police in Schwechat, with reports filed to the Korneuburg public prosecutor’s office and the district administration authority. He faces possible charges under border control regulations and is suspected of fraud.

Security Measures Under Review

The incident has led to a review of procedures at Vienna Airport.

“The Schwechat city police command, together with officials from Vienna Airport, has reviewed the incident to optimise security standards,” a police statement said.

“Investigative measures regarding the passenger’s unauthorised departure were meticulously documented through video analysis by the Schwechat city police command.”