A security emergency unfolded at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Saturday when a passenger on an Alaska Airlines flight issued a direct threat to the aircraft’s safety. The incident occurred during pre-departure operations as the plane was taxiing for takeoff. In response, the aircraft was redirected away from the terminal and surrounded by emergency units on the tarmac. The suspect was taken into custody without resistance, though their identity and the specific nature of the threat remain undisclosed.
The security scare led to significant disruptions, with two major runways temporarily closed, causing a ground stop that affected incoming flights. Six flights were canceled, and two others were diverted. Passengers on the affected flight underwent secondary security screenings, and the plane was thoroughly inspected by bomb-sniffing dogs and law enforcement officers.
Alaska Airlines has stated that the involved aircraft will remain out of service until it receives full security clearance. The Port of Seattle confirmed that normal operations resumed after the security assessment, though flight schedules continued to be impacted. The investigation by Port of Seattle police is ongoing, with federal authorities yet to decide on potential charges. The FAA and TSA are reviewing the airport’s response as part of standard procedure following such incidents.
