Unruly passenger prompts Hamilton-bound flight to land in Thunder Bay, police say

THUNDER BAY, Ont. — A flight bound for Hamilton had to make an unexpected detour to Thunder Bay, Ont., on Sunday in order to deal with what police describe as an unruly passenger.

Thunder Bay Police say the incident began as the Swoop Airlines flight was making its way from Edmonton to Hamilton.

They allege the man began smoking in the plane’s washroom, triggering the in-flight smoke alarm.

Afterwards they say he allegedly continued to be disruptive, swearing at and insulting the flight crew.

The pilot landed the plane in Thunder Bay at around 9:30 p.m. and the 47-year-old Hamilton resident was taken into police custody.

He’s now charged with one count each of mischief over $5,000, smoking on board an aircraft and causing a disturbance while flying.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 20, 2020.  

The Canadian Press