A bomb threat at Spokane International Airport on July 5, 2023, led to the suspension of flight operations and the arrest of a passenger. An Alaska Airlines flight traveling from Atlanta to Seattle was diverted to Spokane after a male passenger made a direct threat to the aircraft's safety. Airport authorities, including Spokane police, the Spokane County Bomb Squad, and the FBI, responded to the incident.
The flight, carrying 177 passengers and six crew members, landed safely in Spokane and was evacuated. Alaska Airlines confirmed the threat and stated they are working to transport the passengers to their original destination, Seattle, as quickly as possible. The airline commended the professionalism of their crew during the incident.
Spokane Airport spokesperson Todd Woodard confirmed to KREM 2 that one person is in custody. Other passengers reported witnessing an individual being escorted away in handcuffs. Several flights experienced delays due to the disruption. Airport operations resumed around 6:45 p.m. local time.
