BOSTON – On Tuesday evening, a JetBlue Airways (B6) passenger unlocked an emergency door while taxiing at Boston’s Logan Airport and deployed the evacuation slide.
The event occurred on January 7, 2025, on JetBlue Flight 161, which was due to depart for San Juan, Puerto Rico. At around 7:25 p.m., the passenger opened the emergency escape over the wing, which activated the slide.
Despite the incident, the passenger stayed on board and was eventually caught by Massachusetts State Police at Terminal C.
According to a Massport representative, the aircraft was still taxiing when the emergency door was opened. The flight, which was scheduled to depart at 6:55 p.m., was delayed until 10:30 p.m. as JetBlue attempted to rebook and accommodate affected passengers.
JetBlue Responds to Logan Airport Incident
JetBlue confirmed the event in a statement.
“A customer opened the aircraft door over the wing for unknown reasons while the plane was taxiing. We are working to get our customers on their way as quickly as possible.”
Furthermore, the airline assured passengers that no crew members or passengers were injured during the incident, despite the fact that the unauthorized deployment of the emergency slide resulted in operational delays and additional costs.
Opening an emergency door while taxiing constitutes a significant violation of aviation safety standards. Emergency slides, which are critical safety features, must be thoroughly inspected and replaced following each deployment. This causes major delays and expensive ramifications for airlines.
Possible Legal Consequences for the Passenger
The detained person is likely to face severe penalties, including federal accusations of interfering with a flight crew. This offense can result in jail, significant penalties, and permanent restrictions on future aviation travel.
According to reports, the individual, whose identity has not been revealed, could face charges as early as Wednesday.
This rare episode at JetBlue Logan Airport demonstrated the significance of maintaining passenger discipline throughout flights. Logan Airport officials, along with Massachusetts State Police and JetBlue, are investigating the incident.
What happened on the JetBlue flight at Logan Airport?
A JetBlue passenger opened an emergency exit door while the aircraft was taxiing at Logan Airport. This action caused the emergency slide to deploy.
Were there any injuries reported?
No injuries were reported during the incident. The passenger was immediately detained, and other passengers were safely deplaned.
Why did the passenger open the door?
Authorities are investigating the passenger’s motives. Early reports suggest it might have been a disruptive act rather than an emergency situation.
What is the protocol when an emergency door is opened on the ground?
When an emergency door is opened during taxiing, the slide deploys automatically for passenger evacuation. The crew must stop the aircraft, notify airport authorities, and ensure passenger safety.
Did this incident cause flight delays at Logan Airport?
Yes, the incident caused temporary delays at Logan Airport as authorities responded and the aircraft was cleared from the taxiway.
