Bomb Threat On Plane, Passenger Taken Into Custody At PIE: Reports

CLEARWATER, FL — A passenger was taken into custody Sunday after making a bomb threat on an Allegiant flight out of St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, according to reports.

Shortly after 2 p.m., the passenger caused a disruption aboard Allegiant flight 1023 to Roanoke, the airline said.

“Allegiant does not tolerate disruptive behavior of any kind, so the decision was made to return to the airport,” spokesperson Andrew Porrello said in an email. “The plane landed safely and was met by law enforcement officers, who took the passenger into custody.”

WFLA reported that two passengers were arguing after takeoff, with one threatening that there was a bomb on the plane, although a search revealed no bomb on board.

“Deputies are investigating a threat made on an Allegiant flight,” Pinellas County Sgt. Amanda Sinni said in an email. “The airport has remained open, and there are no passengers in danger.”

The plane returned to the gate and the flight was scheduled to continue to Roanoke on Sunday night, according to Porrello, who said passengers would receive $100 vouchers for future travel as an apology for the inconvenience.