A routine Frontier Airlines flight was thrown into chaos on Sunday after a passenger made a startling discovery: a loaded ammunition magazine near her seat, prompting a full-scale security emergency and a four-hour delay.
Chaos in the Cabin: The Discovery and Immediate Aftermath
The incident unfolded during the boarding of Frontier Flight 4771, which was scheduled to depart from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport for Cincinnati. An alert passenger spotted the loaded magazine and immediately notified a flight attendant, setting off a chain of security protocols.
In response, the pilot made an announcement, captured by news outlet WSB-TV, informing everyone that a security sweep was necessary and that all passengers had to disembark immediately. The entire aircraft was swiftly evacuated as officials moved to address the potential threat.
The Extensive Security Sweep and Investigation
Following the evacuation, all passengers were re-screened by security at the gate in an effort to determine how the dangerous item made it onto the aircraft. Security personnel also conducted an additional, thorough screening of the entire airplane to ensure no other threats were present.
After extensive checks, passengers were finally permitted to reboard. The entire security ordeal resulted in a four-hour delay for the Cincinnati-bound flight.
Owner Identified as Law Enforcement Officer
The subsequent investigation revealed that the loaded ammunition magazine belonged to a law enforcement officer who had been on an earlier flight using the same aircraft. Officials confirmed to WSB-TV that a federal officer would be the most likely type of passenger able to bring such an item through security and onboard.
Frontier Airlines stated that the officer had likely mistakenly left the magazine behind. The Atlanta Police Department took custody of the ammunition, and the property owner was referred to them to retrieve his items.
In a statement, Frontier reiterated that neither firearms nor ammunition are permitted in carry-on luggage for most passengers, who must instead transport them in checked baggage. The Transportation Security Administration does permit armed federal agents to board under specific requirements.
Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident.
