A passenger aboard a Volaris flight from El Bajío to Tijuana was arrested after attempting to forcibly divert the aircraft to the United States, according to an official statement released by the airline on Sunday.
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The incident occurred during Volaris flight 3041, prompting the crew to enact emergency security protocols. The aircraft was diverted to Guadalajara International Airport, where the disruptive passenger was taken into police custody upon arrival.
“The crew acted according to established security procedures and, following protocol, the plane was diverted to the airport in Guadalajara, where the airline turned the passenger over to the custody of competent authorities,” the airline’s statement read.
The passenger, reportedly traveling with his wife and two children, claimed that a relative had been kidnapped just before takeoff. He also alleged facing a death threat if he continued the journey to Tijuana, according to information provided by Mexican authorities to ABC News.
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Despite the disruption, all passengers and crew members remained safe, and the flight completed its journey to Tijuana after the incident. “Volaris regrets the inconvenience caused by this situation. For Volaris, the safety of our passengers and crew is the highest priority,” the airline’s statement added.
The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) confirmed that Mexico’s National Guard was notified of the incident. Emergency assistance was provided, and the aircraft landed without further complications at Guadalajara International Airport. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Details regarding the type of force used during the attempted diversion and the identity of the passenger remain unclear. The Independent has reached out to Volaris for additional information.
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