Passenger tries to hijack Mexican flight

VOLARIS AIRBUS A321-321 XA-VRB (MSN 7368)

On a domestic flight in Mexico, a passenger attempted to hijack the aircraft and redirect it towards the United States on Sunday morning. The individual, a 31-year-old Mexican citizen identified only as Mario by officials, assaulted flight attendants and attempted to enter the cockpit to change the flight's course, as stated by the Mexican Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection. 

The crew managed to subdue the assailant, and the pilot made an emergency landing at Guadalajara's International Airport (GDL/MMGL). Originally, the flight was set to go from Silao Del Bajio Airport (BJX/MMLO) in Leon to Tijuana (TIJ/MMTJ). Upon landing, the authorities detained the suspect, whose possession of weapons was uncertain. He was accompanied by his wife and two children. 

Volaris CEO Enrique Beltranena reported that Flight 3041, bound for Tijuana from El Bajío, faced an unusual event when a passenger attempted to reroute the plane to the U.S. However, the crew's professionalism and swift action enabled the activation of security protocols, leading to the diversion to Guadalajara Airport. The suspect claimed after takeoff that a relative had been abducted and that he had received threats against traveling to Tijuana, according to airline staff and the SSPC. 

Volaris confirmed that all passengers, crew, and the aircraft were secure, apologizing for any inconvenience caused and emphasizing that passenger and crew safety is their highest concern. The flight resumed to Tijuana without the suspect, and no further issues were reported. 

Volaris has taken legal action against the passenger to ensure he is held fully accountable.

Aircraft Information:

Airline: Volaris 

Code: Y4/ VOI

Aircraft: Airbus A321-233

Registration: N526VL

Serial Number: 6470

Engines: 2 x IAE V2527E-A5

First Flew: 03/02/2015

Age: 9.8 Years