Seattle Airport: Delays & Arrest After Security Incident
- A security incident at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) led to flight delays and cancellations Saturday.
- on Alaska Airlines Flight 2123, operated by Horizon Air, which was scheduled to fly from Seattle to Walla Walla, Washington.
- "During taxi to the runway, a guest made a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft to one of our flight attendants," an Alaska Airlines spokesperson stated.
A security incident at Seattle Airport caused meaningful disruption. Flights were delayed and canceled Saturday after a passenger made a threat on an Alaska Airlines flight. Authorities, including the FBI Seattle and Port of Seattle Police, responded swiftly, leading to the arrest of one suspect. The incident triggered a ground stop by the FAA, causing further airport delays and the diversion of other flights. This situation at Seattle-Tacoma International airport impacted travelers significantly, with numerous flights affected. For up-to-the-minute updates on this and other breaking stories, rely on News Directory 3. The affected aircraft is undergoing inspection. Discover what’s next as the investigation continues and normal operations resume.
Security Incident at Seattle Airport Delays Flights
Updated June 14, 2024
A security incident at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) led to flight delays and cancellations Saturday. A passenger on an Alaska Airlines flight made a “direct threat” to the safety of the aircraft,according to the airline.
The incident occurred around 1 p.m. on Alaska Airlines Flight 2123, operated by Horizon Air, which was scheduled to fly from Seattle to Walla Walla, Washington.
“During taxi to the runway, a guest made a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft to one of our flight attendants,” an Alaska Airlines spokesperson stated. The crew followed protocol and secured the aircraft on a runway away from the main terminal.
Local and federal law enforcement, including the FBI Seattle and the Port of Seattle Police Department, responded to the scene.
One suspect is in custody, according to authorities.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a ground stop due to the security situation.Two runways were temporarily closed, leaving only one operational.
The security threat led to the cancellation of at least six Alaska Airlines flights, while two others were diverted to other airports.
“We are working to get all guests to their destinations safely and as quickly as possible,” the Alaska Airlines spokesperson added.
There were 68 passengers and four crew members on board the affected flight. All passengers were safely deplaned and will undergo a security screening before being allowed to return to the terminal, according to the Port of Seattle.
What’s next
The aircraft involved will undergo a thorough security inspection before being returned to service, according to Alaska Airlines. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident.