Southwest Flight Diverted Over Misinterpreted Phone Alarm

A Southwest Airlines flight bound for Florida was diverted to Atlanta on Friday evening after a passenger's phone alarm, set to mark prayer time during Ramadan, sparked fears of a security threat, prompting law enforcement to remove the individual from the aircraft.

The incident unfolded aboard Flight 2094, which departed Nashville International Airport around 7:15 p.m. en route to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Approximately 30 minutes after takeoff, passengers reported seeing flight attendants rushing through the aisles in apparent distress. An announcement soon followed, instructing everyone to lower their heads and raise their hands, leaving travelers confused about whether the issue involved a mechanical problem, medical emergency or something more serious.

The crew reported a passenger disturbance to air traffic control, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Out of an abundance of caution, the plane diverted to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, landing around 9 p.m. Upon arrival, armed officers boarded the aircraft, and video footage shared on social media captured passengers complying with the instructions as authorities...