On Tuesday, February 20, 2024, an American Airlines flight from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Chicago, Illinois, was abruptly diverted when a passenger attempted to open the emergency exit door mid-flight.
American Airlines Flight 1219 departed from Albuquerque International Sunport and was forced to return after the dramatic incident unfolded approximately 30 minutes into the journey.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the occurrence, stating that the crew reported a passenger disturbance that necessitated the return.
According to eyewitness accounts, the male passenger, whose identity has not been disclosed, exhibited erratic behavior by trying to open the airplane door aggressively. This prompted immediate intervention from fellow passengers and the flight crew.
Among the passengers responding was Zach Etkind, known for the Barstool Sports series “Donnie Does,” who played a pivotal role in subduing the disruptive individual.
Etkind, also known as “Wonton Don” to Barstool fans, shared with followers of his “X” account his involvement in detaining the individual.
Accompanying a posted image of the event, he described how, 30 minutes post-departure from Albuquerque, they were jolted from a state of restfulness by someone attempting to unlock the plane’s door a few rows away forcibly.
Etkind added that together with five others, he had to physically subdue the man in the aisle following the application of duct tape on his legs and securing his arms behind his back with Flexi-cuffs.
Upon landing, local law enforcement escorted the man off the aircraft and took him into custody. The alarming scene was captured on video, with footage showing the restrained man being led away by officers. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Division has taken the lead in the ongoing investigation. As of now, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has not filed charges against the man.
Passengers who were aboard the flight expressed their shock and disbelief at the situation. One passenger recounted feeling a sudden gush of wind as the man attempted to open the door, while others were curious about the motives behind his actions.
American Airlines has expressed its commitment to the safety of its passengers and crew, indicating that the airline will take appropriate measures following a comprehensive review of the incident.
