Video Shows 'Anxious' Flier Opening Alaska Airlines Door, Walking Onto Wing

An "anxious" Alaska Airlines passenger opened the plane's emergency exit and stepped out onto the wing while other passengers watched in shock through their windows, video obtained by Newsweek shows.

The incident occurred on December 22 after the flight from Milwaukee landed and parked at the gate at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Why It Matters

The incident happened during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, with American Automobile Association (AAA) forecasting record-breaking holiday travel numbers.

What To Know

The video obtained by Newsweek, provided by the Port of Seattle, shows the woman on the wing for about 11 minutes before firefighters used a ladder to assist her back onto solid ground. Alaska Airlines described the woman as a "disruptive guest" and confirmed the matter was resolved safely.

The footage shows the passenger wearing a red shirt and carrying a backpack as she stands near the edge of the wing. Initial confusion delayed the response, with airport staff and vehicles passing by seemingly unaware of the situation.

After firefighters assisted the woman, she was evaluated by a police crisis team.

Chris Guizlo, director of communications and marketing at the Port of Seattle, told Newsweek via email on Monday: "During deplaning of the aircraft, a passenger on board became anxious and opened the emergency exit over the wing. The woman climbed out onto the wing. Port of Seattle Fire responded and helped the passenger off the aircraft wing to the ramp. Port Police crisis team responded and eventually determined to send the passenger to the hospital for evaluation."

He added: "Our crisis teams are trained to respond to unusual circumstances like these with care and professionalism. We will continue working closely with Alaska Airlines to review the response and improve coordination if needed."

The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) is also investigating the incident but has not filed charges.

A passenger aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 323 is seen climbing out of the emergency exit and onto the aircraft's wing after landing at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on December 22. Port of Seattle

What People Are Saying

Aviation expert Scott Hamilton spoke to local news station KIRO 7: "If there's clearly no intent of some kind, you just kind of go with the flow, so to speak. And [what] would be the point of charging that person?"

Alaska Airlines in statement shared to Newsweek: "We are working with our crew and airport officials to gather more details about what may have transpired. We thank our employees for their swift response and apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused our guests."

What Happens Next

The investigation by the FBI and local authorities will determine whether any charges are warranted. Alaska Airlines is conducting an internal review to assess safety protocols and response measures. This incident may prompt discussions in the aviation industry about handling similar disruptions, especially during peak travel periods.