Passenger Arrested Following Bomb Threat on Alaska Airlines Flight

A passenger was arrested Saturday afternoon at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport after jokingly mentioning a bomb on an Alaska Airlines flight, as reported by the Port of Seattle.

The event took place while the Horizon Air-operated plane, headed for Walla Walla, was taxiing towards takeoff. Alaska Airlines stated that the passenger issued “a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft” by making comments to a flight attendant.

In compliance with safety protocols, the flight crew directed the aircraft to a secluded runway and alerted law enforcement. This action led to the closure of two runways and a temporary ground stop for some airport-bound flights, as Port of Seattle Police responded to the situation.

Passengers, along with the aircraft and luggage, were thoroughly searched by K9 units, although officials confirmed that no suspicious items were discovered.

This incident resulted in the cancellation of at least six flights and the diversion of two others.

The FBI and Port of Seattle Police are currently reviewing the incident and will collaborate with prosecutors to decide if charges should be pursued.