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Online video footage has surfaced showing a wandering beggar operating on a plane, reportedly a Qatar Airways flight, holding out a plastic pouch to collect money.

The identity of the man is unknown but he was reported to be an Iranian national.

Beggars of various types, often with plausible stories, are common on trains in Europe, moving fast to keep one step ahead of the authorities. They are seldom seen in the air, perhaps because it’s impossible to beat a hasty retreat.

The middle-aged beggar (who was a paying passenger, apparently) stood in the aisle asking passengers persistently for money. It worked – a few passengers gave him cash. One can be seen at the start of the clip reaching across the aisle to donate.

The odd incident happened aboard a Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Shiraz, and the man ignored repeated requests from cabin crew to sit down, the Daily Mail reported.

Takeoff was delayed for a short time while the begging continued.

Witness Osman Naeem filmed the scene and shared it on social media.

A flight attendant approaches and tells the beggar: “Sir, please have a seat. I understand you, sir, but we’re about to take off.”

The beggar nods and continues to beg.

Written by Peter Needham