Tokyo Emergency Landing: US-Bound Plane Returns Due to In-Flight Biting Incident

By Alejandro Villamor Last updated Jan 18, 2024 Share with new partner:

An extremely inebriated passenger on All Nippon Airways’ (ANA) Flight 118 from Tokyo to Seattle had to be forced to return to Tokyo Haneda Airport following an odd and unsettling event where a female cabin attendant was bit.

The incident occurred over the Pacific Ocean, prompting an unscheduled return just three hours into the 10-hour journey.

The unnamed 55-year-old American citizen responsible for the assault was promptly handed over to the authorities upon landing.

The female flight attendant who was the victim of the incident only suffered minor wounds. As stated by the Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun, the suspect is currently being charged with assault; however, the charges and identity of the precise offense are still pending.

This disturbing incident adds to a growing trend of in-flight altercations. In July 2022, an American Airlines flight from Dallas to Charlotte witnessed a passenger hitting, biting, and spitting at flight crews, resulting in a significant fine imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Airline Industry’s Battle Against Disruptive Behavior

tokyo-emergency-landing-us-bound-plane-returns-due-to-in-flight-biting-incident — An extremely inebriated passenger on All Nippon Airways’ (ANA) Flight 118 from Tokyo to Seattle had to be forced to return to Tokyo Haneda Airport following an odd and unsettling event where a female cabin attendant was bit.

Similarly, another passenger on a Delta Air Lines flight from Las Vegas to Atlanta faced fines for attempting to hug, kiss, and repeatedly biting a fellow traveler.

These recent episodes have raised concerns about the safety of air travel, with authorities taking strict measures. In the two cases mentioned, the FAA issued record fines of $81,950 and $77,272, respectively, marking the highest penalties ever imposed for such offenses.

This unsettling incident aboard ANA Flight 118 serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by airline staff in maintaining order and security.

The airline industry continues to grapple with disruptive behavior, necessitating a robust response to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members.

As air travel incidents become more frequent, there is a growing need for increased security measures and passenger awareness campaigns to curb unruly behavior and protect the integrity of the flying experience for everyone on board.