A Delta Air Lines co-pilot was arrested by federal agents on Saturday night, shortly after Flight 2809 from Minneapolis touched down at San Francisco International Airport. The Boeing 757-300, which was delayed during its second approach due to heavy fog, landed at approximately 9:35 p.m. This incident escalated from what was initially a routine deplaning into a chaotic scene, as reported by eyewitnesses.
Passenger Sarah Christianson, seated in first class, described the unfolding events in an email to the Chronicle. “A group of people with badges, guns, and different agency vests/markings were pushing their way up through the aisle to the cockpit,” she recounted. Christianson observed at least 10 law enforcement officers, including agents from Homeland Security Investigations and individuals identifying as air marshals, as they stormed the cockpit.
The officers quickly apprehended the co-pilot, handcuffed him, and escorted him down the aisle. This dramatic scene unfolded in front of the passengers, who were left bewildered. “It was rage-inducing to see someone being disappeared right in front of me,” Christianson remarked, emphasizing the lack of communication from the crew regarding the situation.
Following the initial arrest, a second team of agents returned to the aircraft to collect the co-pilot’s personal belongings. The remaining pilot, seemingly unaware of the incident, reassured passengers by stating he had “no idea what just happened.” This lack of information left many passengers feeling uneasy and uncertain about the situation.
As the situation unfolded, Delta Air Lines declined to provide any comments, directing inquiries towards the Department of Homeland Security. As of now, there has been no further information released regarding the reason for the co-pilot's arrest, adding to the mystery surrounding this shocking event.
The incident, which has garnered significant attention, was also captured on video and shared on the aviation blog A View From the Wing. As details continue to emerge, many are left wondering about the implications of such an arrest on Delta Air Lines and air travel safety.
