Law Enforcement
American Airlines passenger in Honduras damaged controls in cockpit
The passenger tried to escape by jumping out of a window
January 12, 2022 11:52am
Updated: January 13, 2022 5:00pm
A passenger boarding an American Airlines flight in Honduras entered the cockpit and caused damage, wrecking the flight controls.
"A customer entered the open flight deck and caused damage to the aircraft. Crew members intervened and the individual was ultimately apprehended by local law enforcement,” American Airlines told The Hill.
The incident occurred on American Airlines flight 488 going from San Pedro Sula, Honduras to Miami. During the boarding process, the flight deck was open, said the airline. After damaging the controls, the passenger tried to jump out of a window to flee the scene.
"Crew members intervened and the individual was ultimately apprehended by local law enforcement," said the airline in a statement.
A video of the incident posted on Twitter shows the passenger leaning out of the cockpit window and yelling at airport staff.
— Ariel Sierra (@ArielSierra) January 12, 2022
"We applaud our outstanding crew members for their professionalism in handling a difficult situation," read the statement.
Details about the passenger and their intentions have not been shared.
