United Airlines faces onboard emergency as passenger attempts cockpit entry
United Airlines aircraft had 170 passengers along with six crew members on board
A passenger of United Airlines was taken into custody at a New Jersey airport following a suspected incident onboard.
The Port Authority Police Department (PAPD) was alerted about a “disturbance” on United Airlines flight 1837 around 6pm local time on Saturday (May 2), as it landed at Newark Liberty Airport (EWR), CBS News and ABC7 New York reported.
A 48-year-old male — whose identity has not been made public — was taken into custody by authorities and transported to a nearby medical center for a psychiatric evaluation, according to the reports.
United Airlines provided a statement to CBS News, saying, "Local law enforcement engaged with United flight 1837 upon its scheduled arrival at Newark International Airport to manage an unruly travelller. We appreciate our crew for their actions to ensure the safety of our crew members and customers."
In audio from air traffic control obtained by the news outlet, the pilot claimed a man attacked a flight attendant and attempted to open the main cabin door.
“The pilot is requesting an emergency; it appears someone has just assaulted our flight attendant," mentioned an airport staff member, according to the Daily Mail. The air traffic controller replied, “We'll reposition them momentarily."
The staff member interjected, stating, “Can emergency vehicles be sent over here? A man just assaulted our flight attendant and attempted to open the main cabin door.”
The staff member indicated that an attempt was made to enter the cockpit area. The pilot then joined the conversation, asking for law enforcement assistance.
“We need a gate immediately, and require law enforcement to be present,” stated the pilot, according to the Daily Mail. “Someone attempted to forcibly open our door.”
The United Airlines aircraft had 170 passengers along with six crew members on board at the time, as reported by ABC7 New York.
One passenger on the flight declined medical help. No additional injuries were reported during the incident, according to CBS News.