Passenger Arrested After Attempting to Open Flight Door Midair

Authorities reported that a SkyWest flight made an unexpected landing in Cedar Rapids, Michigan, Thursday evening. This was due to a disturbance caused by a passenger on board.

Incident Overview

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), SkyWest flight 3612 was rerouted to land at the Eastern Iowa Airport when crew members announced a disruption caused by a passenger. On arrival, local law enforcement apprehended the individual, who was then taken to the Linn County Correctional Center.

Passenger Details

The Cedar Rapids Police identified the arrested passenger as Mario Nikprelaj, age 23, from Nebraska. Charges against Nikprelaj include disorderly conduct, assault, unlawful possession of prescription drugs, violation of tax stamp laws, and first-degree harassment. Further investigation could lead to additional charges.

Flight Interference

An audio recording from air traffic control captured the pilot reporting a physical altercation between the passenger and a flight attendant, during which the passenger attempted to open an emergency door.

Flight Continuation

Departing initially from Omaha, Nebraska, the flight was bound for Detroit with 67 travelers and four airline staff on board. After the unexpected halt in Cedar Rapids, it eventually resumed its journey towards its original endpoint, confirmed SkyWest representatives to ABC.

The unfolding of this event is under active investigation.