Alaska Airlines Passenger Triggers Security Alert at Seattle Airport

SEATTLE- A passenger aboard an Alaska Airlines (AS) flight created a security emergency at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on Saturday afternoon (June 14, 2025) after making what authorities described as a direct threat to aircraft safety.

The passenger made the threatening statement while speaking with a flight attendant as the aircraft taxied toward the runway for takeoff. Alaska Airlines (AS) confirmed that the threat was made directly to the cabin crew during routine pre-departure operations.

Photo: By Alan Wilson from Stilton, Peterborough, Cambs, UK – Boeing 737-900 | Wikimedia Commons

Alaska Airlines Bomb Threat

Airport authorities responded swiftly to the reported threat. The aircraft was immediately redirected away from the terminal area and surrounded by emergency response units while still on the tarmac. Port of Seattle police officers quickly mobilised to contain the situation.

The suspect was removed from the aircraft and taken into custody without resistance.

Law enforcement officials have not released the individual’s identity or provided specific details about the nature of the threat made.

Seattle Airport; Photo: By Piergiuliano Chesi | Wikimedia Commons

Operations Disrupted

The security incident triggered significant disruptions to airport operations. Two major runways were temporarily closed as Port of Seattle police conducted their investigation.

The runway closures resulted in a ground stop that prevented incoming flights from landing during the emergency response.

Airport officials confirmed that at least 6 scheduled flights were cancelled entirely due to the security situation. Two additional flights that were already airborne were forced to divert to alternative airports while Sea-Tac’s operations remained suspended.

TSA Agent; Photo- Michael Ball | Wikimedia Commons

Security Measures

All passengers aboard the affected aircraft were required to disembark and undergo secondary security screening procedures. TSA personnel worked alongside Port of Seattle authorities to re-screen each passenger individually.

A bomb-sniffing dog was deployed to inspect passengers as they formed a single-file line outside the aircraft. Law enforcement officers conducted a thorough sweep of the plane to ensure no security threats remained aboard.

Alaska Airlines (AS) announced that the aircraft involved in the incident will remain out of service until it receives full clearance under enhanced security protocols. The airline emphasised that passenger and crew safety remains their highest priority during the ongoing investigation.

The Port of Seattle confirmed that normal airport operations resumed after authorities completed their security assessment. However, the incident’s impact on flight schedules continued to affect travellers throughout the remainder of Saturday.

Photo: Alaska Airlines

Investigation Continues

Port of Seattle police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the threat made by the passenger. Officials have not disclosed whether federal authorities will pursue charges related to the incident.

The FAA and TSA are expected to review the airport’s response procedures as part of standard protocol following aviation security incidents. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full scope of the threat and appropriate legal consequences.

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