A pilot has been arrested at an airport after allegedly attempting to smuggle 26 kilograms of ecstasy and a small quantity of methamphetamine concealed inside his luggage.

According to reports, the suspect, identified only as 39-year-old Malaysian national Ms., arrived at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Indonesia, aboard Malaysia Airlines flight MH727 from Kuala Lumpur in the early hours of Wednesday, July 29.

CCTV footage reportedly captured the moment Customs officers stopped the uniformed pilot and instructed him to open his suitcase after selecting him for additional screening.

Although he initially passed through the fast-track lane reserved for airline crew members, Customs officials reportedly flagged him for further inspection following a risk assessment based on his profile and behaviour.

A search of his luggage allegedly uncovered 26kg (57lb) of ecstasy, equivalent to approximately 70,114 pills, along with 4 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside the suitcase.

The suspect was immediately taken into custody as authorities launched an investigation into the alleged drug trafficking attempt.

The arrest has since drawn widespread attention, with many expressing shock that a serving airline pilot could allegedly be linked to such a large-scale drug smuggling operation.