An American Airlines flight returning to Puerto Rico due to a misunderstanding underscores the airline’s commitment to safety. Flight 1847, which was en route from San Juan to Dallas Fort Worth, was diverted shortly after takeoff when a passenger misinterpreted a text message received by a seat neighbor as a potential threat to the flight.
The incident began when a passenger saw another passenger receive a text that read “R.I.P.,” leading them to believe there might be a security concern. Following this alarm, American Airlines promptly adhered to their safety protocols, diverting the flight back to San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport about 30 minutes post-departure.
Once grounded, the aircraft was inspected by law enforcement before being cleared to continue its journey. A spokesperson from American Airlines addressed the situation, stating, “Safety and security are our top priorities,” and they expressed apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Félix Alvarado, Aerostar’s deputy director of security, further clarified that the text was associated with a personal loss; the individual who received it explained that a relative had passed away the previous day, prompting their early return home from vacation. Nelman Nevárez, Aerostar’s director of operations, confirmed that the situation was safely managed without any actual threat.
The flight, carrying 193 passengers, successfully resumed its route and took off for Dallas at around 10 a.m. local time. This incident highlights the importance of clear communication and the cautious approach taken by airlines to ensure passenger safety, even when misunderstandings arise.