A flight bound for Spain from New Jersey returned to Newark Liberty International Airport after the name of a passenger’s bluetooth device raised security concerns.
Officials did not reveal the name of the device, but did note it was a “certain four-letter word” and was “compromising” the safety of the flight headed to Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
“We’re going to be returning back to Newark at this time, unfortunately, because of one person who doesn’t want to comply with the instructions, and because of the foolishness of this one person that wants to make a joke, and it’s not funny, and it’s, it’s compromising integrity and the safety of not only this crew but all the other passengers,” a crew member said during an overhead announcement in a recording posted by CNN.
“So, at this time, unfortunately, we’re going to be making our return back to Newark, because federal agents will be coming on board, and they will be doing a search for the person that has thought really funny, and which is a very serious issue, and we’re not going to be taking this very lightly,” the person added.
The flight, operated by United Airlines, was carrying 190 passengers and 12 crew members, according to The Associated Press.
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It turned around after communicating with the airline’s headquarters in Chicago, the AP noted. Passengers were directed to board a replacement flight with a new crew after being rescreened by TSA agents.
