American Airlines plane in Miami-Bound lands after passenger plunges into cockpit, controls malfunction – CBS Miami

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – An American Airlines flight to Miami was grounded Tuesday night after a passenger plunged into the cockpit and damaged several controllers.

American Airlines confirmed the incident in a statement, adding that the individual had been detained by local law enforcement.

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According to the airline, while boarding a flight from San Pedro Sula, Honduras, to Miami, the passenger “stepped onto the open flight deck and caused damage to the aircraft”.

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CBS News learned that after damaging the flight controls, the traveler was trying to get out through the cockpit window when a pilot intervened.

As a result of the damage, the plane was grounded. A replacement aircraft is on its way. The flight is scheduled to depart again at 9:30 p.m. local time.

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“We applaud our outstanding crew members for their professionalism in handling a difficult situation,” American Airlines said in a statement.