An American Airlines flight destined for New Hampshire was forced to make an emergency landing on Wednesday due to a disruptive incident involving a passenger who allegedly exposed himself and urinated in the aircraft aisle.
The incident, which led to the arrest of a 25-year-old man from Oregon, occurred shortly after the flight departed from Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
Following the disruptive behaviour, the flight returned to Buffalo, where the man was subsequently arrested and charged with indecent exposure. He appeared in a Buffalo federal court and was released after his initial court appearance, as confirmed by the US Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
Despite the disruption, American Airlines appreciated their staff’s professionalism and thanked passengers for their understanding. The airline confirmed that the flight could resume its journey to New Hampshire shortly after addressing the incident.
According to authorities, the passenger informed police that he had consumed multiple whiskey and cola beverages before boarding the flight in Portland, Oregon. He continued to drink during a layover in Chicago. During the flight from Buffalo, the man claimed to have a medical issue that required him to use the restroom, as detailed in the criminal complaint.
