Bomb scare disrupts Alaska Airlines flight at Seattle-Tacoma Airport

King 5 News reported that the passenger made a "flippant remark regarding a bomb" while the plane was taxiing. As per procedure, pilots aborted takeoff and moved the aircraft to a remote area before notifying law enforcement. Port of Seattle Police responded promptly, resulting in temporary ground stops at the airport.

Alaska Airlines stated: “There was a security incident this afternoon involving Alaska Airlines Flight 2123 operated by Horizon Air from Seattle to Walla Walla, Washington. During taxi to the runway, a guest made a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft to one of our flight attendants. Our crew members followed their procedures and secured the aircraft on a runway away from the airport.”

Passengers were disembarked and screened alongside their baggage by K-9 units; no bombs or suspicious items were found. At least six flights were canceled and two others diverted due to this incident.

According to Flightradar24 data, Flight AS2123 departed much later than scheduled but landed without further issues. Videos shared online showed passengers lined up on the tarmac as authorities managed the situation.

The FBI and Port of Seattle Police are reviewing this case. The seriousness of such threats means potential felony charges could be considered against those making them onboard flights.

In July 2023, another serious bomb threat occurred involving Alaska Airlines when Brandon L. Scott handed over a note claiming there was an explosive device onboard his flight from Atlanta to Seattle. That incident led to his arrest and subsequent sentencing in May 2025.