The flight from Brazil to Panama had been smooth until about 30 minutes before landing. At that point, a passenger charged toward the back of the aircraft, holding a plastic knife from his meal tray. He attempted to take a flight attendant hostage, demanding access to the emergency door.
Witness Accounts Describe the Chaos
Cristiano Carvalho, a photojournalist on board, witnessed the situation. He said, “A flight attendant started screaming, and another tried to hold him back, but couldn’t because he was too strong.” Despite warnings, the passenger ignored the crew and moved toward the emergency exit.
Passengers Act Quickly to Prevent a Crisis
As the situation escalated, passengers acted fast. They wrestled the man to the ground and neutralized the threat, preventing a potential disaster.
Military Officers Arrive to Arrest the Passenger
The disturbance occurred early Tuesday aboard Copa Airlines Flight CM204, traveling from Brasília to Panama City. After landing in Panama, military officers boarded the plane, arrested the passenger, and handcuffed him. His face was visibly bloodied from the struggle.
Copa Airlines Acknowledges Swift Action by Crew and Passengers
Copa Airlines issued a statement confirming the arrest and praised the crew and passengers. “The national security team entered the aircraft and removed the passenger,” the airline said. A spokesperson added, “Thanks to the professionalism of the crew, the safety of the flight and passengers was protected.”