(Stations: This serves as a TOPS to Airliner Attack-Arrest)
DETROIT (AP) — A witness says the man who prompted fears of another terrorist episode today on board a Northwest Airlines flight "didn't want to stay in his seat."
Airport officials say the man had used the bathroom several times during the flight from Amsterdam to Detroit -- the same route that was the target of the Christmas Day attack -- and that he refused to come out as the plane was preparing to land.
While some passengers became nervous, others didn't even notice what was happening.
When the plane landed, the captain told passengers that no arrival gates were available. One woman on board says she knew that wasn't the case.
Soon, armed officers rushed on board the plane to remove the man. Passengers were evacuated, and luggage was lined up on the ground for inspection.
Authorities determined that the traveler who caused the problem was, in fact, ill -- and was no threat to anyone.
He was released after questioning.
%@AP Links
