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KLM Flight From Atlanta Canceled After Passenger Opens Emergency Exit During Taxi

Police attribute the disruption to a false weapon report driven by an apparent mental-health episode.

Overview

  • Atlanta police say passenger Johannes Van Heertum called 911 from onboard to report a supposed weapon, then opened the exit and deployed the slide as the plane taxied.
  • The aircraft returned to the ramp, EMTs evaluated the passenger, and he was arrested on charges of reckless conduct, criminal damage to property, and interfering with security measures.
  • Security checks found no weapon on the aircraft, and officials say the investigation continues with APD’s Homeland Security Unit notified.
  • Authorities say Van Heertum remains held at Clayton County Jail without bond following the incident.
  • KLM canceled Flight 622 and rebooked affected travelers, and reports differ on the suspect’s age, with outlets citing either 32 or 48.