A US Marine, Sgt Maj Jody Armentrout, demonstrated quick thinking and bravery by restraining a disruptive passenger attempting to open an emergency exit on an All Nippon Airways flight mid-air. The flight was en route from Japan to Texas when the incident occurred.
The 50-year-old Marine, with over two decades of service, noticed the passenger behaving unusually. "He came out of the bathroom and began pacing up and down the aisle, which immediately raised my suspicions," Armentrout told NBC News. "His eyes showed clearly that something was wrong."
The situation escalated when the passenger attempted to tamper with an emergency exit door. Armentrout intervened by physically subduing the man, pulling him to the ground. Another passenger assisted in restraining him, and Armentrout secured the man to a seat using zip ties.
Following the incident, the flight was diverted to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for passenger safety. The man, reportedly experiencing a medical crisis, was transported to a hospital and has not faced charges. Armentrout remained by the passenger's side for the duration of the flight, emphasizing his concern for all onboard.
Several passengers expressed gratitude for the Marine's bravery, especially considering the presence of families and children on the flight. However, tensions remained high, as another passenger reportedly damaged a bathroom door in frustration over the diversion and was removed by authorities upon landing.
Reflecting on the event, Armentrout described it as "a weird flight" but underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety of everyone onboard.
