On the 20th of February, an American Airlines Boeing 737 was forced to return to Albuquerque International Sunport, Mexico shortly after takeoff.
The Boeing 737-800 with registration N352PS was operating flight AA1219 from Albuquerque to Chicago. However, while the aircraft was approximately 30 minutes into its flight from Albuquerque to Chicago, a male passenger attempted to open an emergency exit door.
Multiple passengers and cabin crew reportedly intervened, struggling to subdue the individual before he could open the door. Fortunately, their efforts were successful, preventing a potentially catastrophic event.
The pilots, informed of the situation, made the immediate decision to return to Albuquerque, landing safely shortly thereafter.
Multiple people on an American flight AA1219, operated by a B737-823 plane (N352PS), struggled to overpower a fellow passenger as he tried to open one of the emergency exits mid-flight, forcing the plane to return to Albuquerque,shortly after takeoff on 20 February.
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Upon landing, local law enforcement met the aircraft and apprehended the unruly passenger. Details regarding the individual’s motive and any potential charges remain unclear at this time.
American Airlines confirmed the incident in a statement, highlighting the safe landing and the involvement of law enforcement.