Marine Stops Passenger’s Attempt to Open Emergency Exit, Flight Diverted to Seattle

Overview

• Sergeant Major Jody Armentrout, a 20-year Marine veteran, intervened on an All Nippon Airways flight from Tokyo to Houston when a passenger tried to open an emergency exit door.
• Flight attendants provided zip ties to secure the passenger beside Armentrout until the plane landed in Seattle.
• Authorities diverted the flight to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport where police escorted the passenger off and he was taken to a local hospital for evaluation.
• Another passenger punched a lavatory door in frustration over the diversion and was also removed from the flight.
• As of May 30, no charges have been filed against either the passenger who attempted to open the exit door or the individual who punched the lavatory door.