A potentially dangerous situation unfolded aboard a Frontier Airlines flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Chicago when a disruptive passenger allegedly assaulted a flight attendant and attempted to open an emergency exit door during the journey. The incident occurred on Frontier Airlines Flight 3345 on the night of May 31, prompting the crew to declare an emergency.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Airbus aircraft was diverted to Miami International Airport after the crew reported a passenger disturbance. The flight landed safely at approximately 11:55 PM, allowing authorities to respond to the situation on the ground.
The disruptive passenger was restrained by Josh Longood, a 37-year-old former professional MMA fighter and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. Longood said he acted after witnessing the disturbance and restrained the individual twice during the flight. After the passenger briefly broke free, Longood and others managed to keep him under control for another 20 to 30 minutes until the aircraft safely reached Miami.
“I was seated nearby and acted quickly to protect the other passengers,” Longood said. The FAA has not released additional details about the passenger’s actions, and Frontier Airlines has yet to comment publicly on the incident. The event highlights the ongoing challenges airlines face in dealing with disruptive passenger behavior and ensuring in-flight safety.