Delta flight diverted to Atlanta due to unruly passenger, airline says
According to a statement by the airline, a flight operated by Delta Air Lines that was originally headed from Michigan to Florida had to be diverted to Atlanta on Wednesday because of an occurrence involving a disruptive traveler.
Delta has not disclosed further information, but they mentioned that their staff members are communicating with the flight attendant to offer assistance. Additionally, they are collaborating with the authorities in their inquiry.
"Delta has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to the mistreatment and intimidation of our staff. Delta is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of both our passengers and crew, and this will always remain our utmost concern," the airline affirmed in a statement to CNN.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the plane changed its course and safely landed at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport at approximately 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time, subsequent to its departure from Detroit.
Officers from the Atlanta Police Department came to the gate in Atlanta to greet the plane. Afterward, the flight proceeded to its final destination in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, with a fresh crew, as confirmed by Delta.
The Atlanta branch of the FBI stated that they had knowledge about the occurrence.
The FBI stated that no charges have been filed, and no arrests have taken place. Currently, we do not possess any additional details to disclose.
According to data from the transportation agency, the FAA has been notified of over 850 disruptive airline travelers in 2023 as of June 18th.
According to the statement issued by Delta, they have always been at the forefront in supporting and fighting for the rights of both their staff and customers, pushing for swift and effective actions against disruptive individuals.
In the morning of Wednesday, there was another occurrence at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina. A Delta plane successfully landed, but its front landing gear failed to extend. Fortunately, no one was injured in this incident. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently conducting an investigation to determine the cause of this malfunction.
