A Delta Air Lines flight from Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport to Atlanta had an unexpected detour early Wednesday morning when an unruly passenger forced the plane to turn back shortly after takeoff, according to Fox News.
The passenger reportedly displayed aggressive behavior toward fellow travelers, prompting the flight crew to declare an emergency and return to Houston. Multiple passengers said the man punched other travelers, rushed into the cockpit and several had to help restrain him before the plane landed safely.
Authorities met the aircraft upon landing, and the individual was taken into custody by Houston police. While early reports speculated that the passenger tried to access the cockpit, Delta confirmed he did not attempt to breach the flight deck.
After the disturbance was resolved, the flight departed again and was expected to reach Atlanta roughly 90 minutes late. The Federal Aviation Administration is reviewing the incident, which comes amid a rise in unruly passenger incidents across U.S. flights.
