Delta Flight Crew Detains Passenger After His Attempt to Enter Cockpit

Image: PHOTO: A Delta crew was forced to detain a passenger  (photo via Boarding1Now / iStock Editorial / Getty Images Plus)
Image: PHOTO: A Delta crew was forced to detain a passenger (photo via Boarding1Now / iStock Editorial / Getty Images Plus)
Rich Thomaselli
by Rich Thomaselli
Last updated: 12:33 PM ET, Wed July 3, 2019

A Delta Air Lines crew detained an unruly passenger who tried to enter the cockpit on Wednesday morning during a flight from Puerto Rico to New York.

The plane was forced to return to San Juan before continuing on to New York, which delayed arrival by almost two hours.

According to the Associated Press, Puerto Rico police said 30-year-old Carlos Ramírez Rodríguez became aggressive after takeoff.

Yelling, "I am God! Tomorrow San Juan is going to disappear. I came to save the world, and I'm going to end terrorism," Ramirez tried to enter the cockpit on Flight 579.

He was subdued by Delta crew and a few passengers. Earlier reports noted that the pilot arrested Ramirez in-flight, which is his purview to do so by law.

The flight was carrying more than 160 passengers and six crew members.

"Delta applauds the quick action and professionalism of the crew," the airline said in a statement, noting that some passengers also helped restrain the man.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Rich Thomaselli

Rich Thomaselli

Associate Writer

Editor Associate Writer true 9281 14744 Rich Thomaselli has written for TravelPulse since 2014 and has been a professional journalist for nearly 40 years. His work has appeared in USA Today, the New York Times and New York Yankees publications. He is an 11-time writ

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Korea Travel Specialist ProgramThis course will allow you to explore this fascinating country's incredible diversity of experiences...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Costa Rica Specialist ProgramCosta Rica Specialist Program academy ENROLL NOW Costa Rica offers golden shores, fish-filled waters,...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Korea Travel Specialist ProgramThis course will allow you to explore this fascinating country's incredible diversity of experiences...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Costa Rica Specialist ProgramCosta Rica Specialist Program academy ENROLL NOW Costa Rica offers golden shores, fish-filled waters,...

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Upcoming Webinar
Why Cruise, When You Can CunardWednesday, June 24 2026
2:00pm Eastern
When cruise is the option, Cunard is the difference. This session explores what sets the Cunard...
Upcoming Webinar
July AAT Kings WebinarTuesday, July 7, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
July Avanti Destinations WebinarTuesday, July 14, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
Why Cruise, When You Can CunardWednesday, June 24 2026
2:00pm Eastern
When cruise is the option, Cunard is the difference. This session explores what sets the Cunard...
Upcoming Webinar
July AAT Kings WebinarTuesday, July 7, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
July Avanti Destinations WebinarTuesday, July 14, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Save your spot for this upcoming webinar! Details coming soon!