An All Nippon Airways (ANA) flight enroute to Houston from Tokyo was forced to divert to Seattle due to a disruptive passenger on May 24, 2025,
All Nippon Airways flight NH114, operated by a Boeing 787-9, was en route from Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) to Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
Approximately nine hours into the 12-hour flight, a male passenger attempted to open an emergency exit door, sparking panic among passengers.
The incident occurred during the busy Memorial Day weekend. It forced the Boeing 787-9 to divert to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
ANA Flight NH114 Inflight Incident
The flight, carrying passengers across the Pacific, was in cruising flight when the passenger began exhibiting erratic behavior. Reports suggest the individual was experiencing a medical crisis, which may have led to his attempt to access the emergency exit.
While it is virtually impossible to open such doors mid-flight due to cabin pressure, the attempt caused immediate concern amongst passengers.
Two military veterans among the passengers, along with ANA’s operating crew, restrained the individual using zip ties and secured him to his seat. Their quick thinking prevented further disturbance.
The captain, prioritizing safety, diverted the flight to Seattle, landing at 6:19 a.m. CST. Law enforcement and medical personnel were ready on the tarmac. The passenger was evaluated and taken to a local hospital for further care.
A Second Disruption in Seattle
While the aircraft was grounded in Seattle, another passenger became unruly, adding to the chaos. The Port of Seattle Police removed this individual, though no charges have been reported for either passenger.
Their identities and medical conditions remain undisclosed, respecting privacy protocols.
ANA praised the crew and passengers for their cooperation, emphasizing that safety remains its top priority. After the situation was resolved, Flight NH114 continued to Houston. The flight landed at 12:15 p.m. local time, several hours behind its 8:25 a.m. schedule. The airline thanked local authorities for their support during the unexpected diversion.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of preparedness in air travel. Crew training, passenger vigilance, and robust safety measures ensured no one was harmed. On the same day, European carrier easyJet faced a similar incident, when a passenger became disruptive inflight. The passenger claimed there was a bomb aboard the flight and attempted to open an exit door, forcing a precautionary diversion to Frankfurt.
As air travel surges during holidays, such events remind us of the challenges airlines face. Both ANA’s and easyJet’s handling of their respective incidents highlights why trust in aviation safety protocols remains crucial.
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