by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 1:20 PM ET, Fri July 18, 2025
An unruly passenger on a SkyWest flight was arrested after trying to open the emergency exit.
The flight was forced to land in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on Thursday because of the incident, according to the FAA and published reports.
SkyWest flight 3612 landed at the Eastern Iowa Airport after the crew reported “a passenger disturbance.” Law enforcement officers were waiting for the plane when it landed and arrested the individual who caused the disturbance.
Media reports have identified the unruly passenger as 23-year old Mario Nikprelaj from Nebraska.
The passenger faces a litany of charges including disorderly conduct, assault, possession of prescription medication, tax stamp and harassment in the first degree.
He may also be charged with additional crime pending further investigation.
An air traffic control audio reveals that the pilot of the SkyWest plane can be heard saying that the traveler was“in a fight with a flight attendant right now, trying to open the emergency exit.”
The impact flight was traveling from Omaha, Nebraska and was scheduled to land in Detroit. There were 67 passengers and four crew on the plane.
The investigation into the incident continues.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
