A United Airlines flight to Mexico was still canceled on the parking lot in San Francisco, after a passenger was caught to commit what was described as a “selfish act” in the plane’s bathroom. The incident caused indignation between the other passengers and led the plane commander to make an unexpected decision.
Flight UA1679, which had Mexico as its final destination, was already late due to technical problems. During this waiting period, a passenger decided to smoke cannabis in the aircraft toilet, being immediately removed from the plane by the authorities, according to the British newspaper The Mirror.
Seizure of the crew part
Despite the rapid removal, the crew (as well as the commander) was apprehensive that the possibility of inhaling smoking involuntarily. Concern has increased due to the rigid rules of the airline and the surprise inspections that pilots and onboard assistants may be subject.
Given the situation, the plane commander chose to cancel the trip. Speaking to passengers on the plane, the pilot justified his decision: “I have 30 years of career ahead at United, I am not willing to risk an anti -drug test when arriving in Houston.”
Passengers were then forced to leave the plane and received a meal valley worth 15 dollars, as well as access to a snack cart at the departure gate, according to the same source. The flight was waiting for a new crew.
Random tests
In the United States, pilots and cabin crews are subject to random testing of substances. The fear of exposure to Marijuana’s smoke (albeit passively) raised doubts about the safety of the operation, weighing on the decision of cancellation.
In social networks, several users reported similar situations, according to the source mentioned above. A passenger recalled an episode in Miami, where a mechanical delay was aggravated when someone decided to vaporize inside the bathroom, activating the smoke alarm. The pilot was equally exposed and had to leave the aircraft, resulting in the cancellation of the flight.
Passenger Revolt
Among the comments, the revolt against risky behaviors within the aircraft. “I love how a selfish person spoils everything to others,” wrote one user. Another added, “As a captain, it did very well! I won’t lose my work because of the passengers’ stupidity.”
As reported, this incident in San Francisco reinforces the consequences that an isolated act can have for hundreds of travelers, while underlines the importance of air safety rules that do not give rise to risks.
Also read:
