Flight Diverted to Seattle After Passenger Attempts to Open Exit Door

SEATTLE, Wash. — An All Nippon Airways flight traveling from Tokyo to Houston was diverted to Seattle early Saturday after a passenger attempted to open an emergency exit door mid-flight. The incident occurred on May 25, 2025, prompting the plane to land safely at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport around 4:19 a.m. PT, according to the Port of Seattle Police.

The flight, designated NH114, departed from Haneda Airport in Tokyo at approximately 10:33 a.m. local time and was nearly 10 hours into its journey when the disturbance occurred. In a statement, All Nippon Airways described the passenger as “unruly,” although detailed information about the individual was not released.

According to police, fellow passengers and flight crew were able to restrain the individual until the aircraft landed. After assessing the situation upon arrival, authorities determined that the passenger was experiencing a medical crisis and they were subsequently transported to a local hospital for further care.

In a separate but related incident on the tarmac, another passenger was removed by police for “unruly behavior.” Details about their actions were not disclosed, but All Nippon Airways confirmed that this second passenger was unrelated to the initial disturbance.

The flight eventually resumed its journey to Houston, departing Seattle at around 7 a.m. PT. It arrived in Houston at approximately 12:42 p.m. CT. All Nippon Airways issued a statement emphasizing that the safety of passengers and crew is their top priority.

Both incidents underline the challenges airlines face in maintaining safety during flights, particularly when dealing with passenger behavior. Further information regarding any potential charges against the individuals involved has not been released.