Seattle-Tacoma International Airport faced a significant disruption on Saturday when a passenger made a ‘direct threat’ to the safety of an Alaska Airlines flight, leading to a full security response and the closure of two runways at the airport. The incident, which occurred around 1 p.m., involved Alaska Airlines Flight 2123, operated by Horizon Air, traveling from Seattle to Walla Walla, Washington. According to a spokesperson for Alaska Airlines, the passenger made a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft during the taxiing process, prompting the crew to secure the plane on a runway away from the terminal.
Local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI Seattle and the Port of Seattle Police Department, were immediately dispatched to the scene. One suspect has been identified and is currently in custody, though details regarding the incident remain unclear. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a ground stop order due to the security threat, affecting airline operations at the airport. Two runways were closed as a precaution, leaving only one open for air traffic.
The incident resulted in at least six flights being canceled and two others being diverted, affecting hundreds of passengers. Alaska Airlines confirmed that 68 passengers and four crew members were onboard the affected flight. Passengers were safely deplaned and will undergo security screening before being returned to the terminal. The airline emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and timely return of all travelers.
The nature of the threat remains under investigation, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the passenger’s actions. While the situation has been contained, the incident highlights the vulnerabilities in airport security and the potential for disruptions in air travel. The airport is expected to resume normal operations once the investigation is complete and security measures are deemed adequate.