Algerian stowaway symbol of disenchanted youth, flawed airport security

The case of a young Algerian stowaway who was found hiding in the landing gear of an airplane coming from Oran in Paris Orly airport has come to symbolize the fate of disenchanted youth willing to risk their life to flee to Europe as well as the unreliability of Algeria to secure its airports.

The young man was found suffering from severe hypothermia after a 2.5-hour flight from Oran and was rushed to hospital.

He was not the first stowaway. In June 4, 2022, two Algerian young men hiding in the luggage hold of an Air Algerie plane bound for Barcelona were found dead, while another died in another Air Algeria luggage hold in March the same year before reaching France.

The news embarrassed the military regime in Algiers and its civilian façade which resorted to its scapegoating tactics. At least 16 officials have been blamed for the incident including people who had desk jobs far away from the runway.

The incident is a blow to Algeria’s capacity to secure its international airports and reflects the reality of unemployment and lack of prospects for the Algerian youth.

Thousands have died while trying to cross the mediterranean. Journalists who dare to report on this face harsh state reprisals.