In the current year, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported a staggering number of 983 incidents involving “unruly passengers” on planes in the US. These incidents include fights, bomb threats, and adult temper tantrums. Interestingly, these occurrences have seen a significant uptick in line with the increase in travel during the summer months. It seems that as flight travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, the experience on board has not been all about fun and relaxation.
According to Insider’s analysis of FAA data, there has been a nearly 50% surge in conflicts between passengers mid-flight compared to pre-COVID-19 levels in the US. This alarming trend highlights the range of troublesome behavior witnessed among passengers this year, including violence towards fellow passengers and flight attendants, as well as bomb threats and disruptive tantrums. Additionally, other disruptions, such as equipment issues, have added to the chaos. As summer travel traditionally booms, these disturbing incidents have only intensified.
Let’s take a look at some of the most remarkable episodes that have occurred on planes thus far in 2021. For instance, on a Delta flight, a passenger decided to open the plane door and utilize the emergency slide just moments before takeoff from Los Angeles International Airport. The individual was detained by airport crew after he jumped onto a baggage cart and later underwent a mental evaluation at a nearby hospital. This incident led to delays for the other passengers onboard, as they had to deplane and transfer to another aircraft to reach their intended destination.
Similarly, a United Airlines passenger on a flight from San Francisco International Airport made headlines by punching a crew member and attempting to jump off the plane. Despite the efforts to restrain him, the man managed to reach the emergency exit. Fortunately, he was apprehended before he could carry out his potentially dangerous act. Videos taken by fellow passengers depicted the chaotic scene, with desperate pleas for the man to stop. United addressed the incident, stating that the passenger has been banned from future flights and that they are cooperating with the local authorities’ investigation.
In another shocking incident, a man apparently opened an emergency exit on a landing plane in South Korea while the aircraft was approximately 700 feet in the air. The partially opened door caused panic among passengers, especially the nearly 50 school-aged children who were traveling to a sporting event. Although the plane eventually landed safely, 12 people, including eight children, were taken to hospitals due to minor breathing problems. The airline involved, Asiana Airlines, is yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident.
Passengers on a Southwest Airlines flight experienced a terrifying moment when they received an AirDropped photo suggesting there was a bomb on board. As a result, the plane was forced to make an emergency landing at Oakland International Airport. Passengers were then required to disembark while law enforcement investigated the incident. Fortunately, no explosives were found during the thorough search of the plane and passengers’ belongings. Southwest expressed gratitude for the passengers’ patience and understanding and provided them with flight credits for the inconvenience caused.
In a different scenario, an Alaska Airlines flight attendant received a threatening note from a passenger, indicating a bomb would be detonated if the plane was not diverted from its intended destination of Seattle. The aircraft eventually landed in Spokane, Washington, where the suspect was detained and questioned by authorities. However, no bombs or explosive materials were discovered on board. Alaska Airlines commended the passengers and crew for their cooperation during the incident and aimed to transport them to Seattle promptly.
Lastly, a journalist and passenger on an Air France flight from Paris to Toronto made a disturbing discovery when he found a patch of blood and feces on the carpet in front of his seat. Although he reported the incident to Air France attendants, he was unable to move to another seat due to the plane being full. According to airline staff, another passenger had experienced a medical issue on a previous flight, leading to the contamination. Despite providing wipes to clean his belongings, the passenger did not receive a refund, only a $500 voucher and a cat wash as compensation. Air France confirmed the incident, expressed regret over the inconvenience caused, and assured minimal risk of exposure to residual traces of blood on the carpet.
These shocking incidents serve as a reminder of the disruptive and distressing experiences some airline passengers have faced this year. The FAA and respective airlines are working diligently to address these issues and ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. It is crucial for travelers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or concerning behavior for the well-being of everyone on board.
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