In a shocking incident reminiscent of the movie "Snakes on a Plane," passengers on an AirAsia flight from Bangkok to Phuket were startled when a snake emerged from an overhead compartment. The 2ft-long reptile appeared mid-air, causing horrified fliers to jump out of their seats and stand in the aisle in fear.

Quick-thinking and courageous, a cabin crew member seized a plastic bottle to safely capture the snake, which was unsure if it was venomous or not. With the snake secure inside a plastic bag, it was placed in a cupboard for further inspection. Ground staff at Phuket International Airport later examined the aircraft to ensure no other animals had been smuggled on board.

One British holidaymaker, who was onboard the flight, expressed their shock and relief at the incident's resolution. Not fond of creepy crawlies, let alone snakes, they remarked on the unexpected movie-like experience. Other passengers shared similar sentiments, expressing their disbelief that such a situation could occur in real life.

The video footage captured by a female passenger, who operates the Wanna B Salon Phuket, showcased the astonishing sight of a snake on a plane. The incident took place during the descent for landing, adding to the overall drama.

Authorities have yet to determine if the snake entered the plane independently or if it had escaped from a passenger's luggage. The snake was identified as a Blanford's bridle snake, a non-venomous species commonly found in Asia.

This incident follows previous cases of exotic animal smuggling aboard flights, including a rat and an otter that escaped and bit an air hostess on a VietJet flight from Bangkok to Taiwan last year. Another incident involved a Taiwanese holidaymaker smuggling a prairie dog and two otters through Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Such occurrences highlight the ongoing need for vigilant security checks.

Thai Air Asia X, the AirAsia subsidiary operating flights in Thailand, has been contacted for comment regarding the incident. The airline has yet to release an official statement.

Passengers, undoubtedly shaken by this unexpected encounter, can add this bizarre incident to their collection of unique travel stories. As for the snake, it has now become another aviation tale to share, albeit an unusual one.