Finance

Mid-Flight Chaos: Passenger Attempts to Open Exit Door, Flight Diverted to Seattle

2025-05-24

Author: Lok

In a shocking incident, a passenger aboard a flight from Tokyo to Houston tried to forcibly open an emergency exit door while cruising at altitude, triggering an urgent diversion to Seattle early Saturday morning.

The All Nippon Airways flight safely touched down at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport at approximately 4:19 a.m., where swift action by the crew and fellow passengers led to the individual's restraint until the aircraft could land.

Upon landing, it was quickly determined that the unruly passenger was experiencing a medical crisis, requiring immediate assistance from emergency medical services who transported them to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Originally slated to arrive at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport at 8:25 a.m., the flight faced a significant delay, finally landing around 12:15 p.m.

In an unexpected twist, while on the tarmac in Seattle, another passenger began to display unruly behavior, necessitating intervention. Both individuals were subsequently removed from the flight by the Port of Seattle Police, allowing the journey to continue without further incident.

Although All Nippon Airways confirmed the events in a statement, details regarding the passengers involved remain scarce. This incident has raised concerns over in-flight safety and the challenges airlines face with medical emergencies.