Argentine Footballer Detained After Alleged Bomb Threat on Flight Causes Airport Disruptions

An incident occurred on Saturday at Gobernador Horacio Guzman International Airport in north-western Argentina, where Jesús David Emiliano Endrizzi, a 32-year-old defender for Gimnasia y Esgrima de Jujuy, was detained after allegedly yelling 'bomb' aboard Flybondi flight FO5181. m. local time for Buenos Aires, where the team was traveling for a Primera Nacional match against Agropecuario.

Video footage showed passengers watching as Endrizzi was led off the aircraft in handcuffs. Security protocols were activated immediately after the alleged threat. Airport Security Police took control, and all passengers were evacuated from the plane.

Specialist explosives officers searched the aircraft and surrounding areas but found no suspicious devices. The search and evacuation halted airport operations temporarily, resulting in delays and cancellations that affected more than 1,200 passengers throughout the day. Flybondi reported this as the second similar incident involving the airline within 48 hours.

The airline stated that the passenger's actions led to the disruptions.

Club Response and Investigation Gimnasia y Esgrima de Jujuy confirmed it is cooperating with investigators.

Club president Walter Morales said in a radio interview that the player's future at the club is under evaluation. Morales noted that the player was detained and the flight was rescheduled. Morales addressed whether the remark might have been intended as a joke, stating that current global conditions do not permit such comments.

He emphasized that the player was on work duties representing the club. The club is working to maintain its reputation during the ongoing investigation.

Broader Context and Passenger Reactions The incident disrupted travel plans for many, including families heading to Buenos Aires.

Online videos of the event prompted reactions from passengers, with some expressing frustration over the delays. Flybondi indicated it is considering legal action against those responsible for the disruption. Legal proceedings could follow for Endrizzi, pending the outcome of the investigation by authorities.

The football match logistics for Gimnasia y Esgrima de Jujuy were affected, though the rescheduled flight allowed the team to proceed. Airport operations resumed after the all-clear was given.