TAIWAN (Taiwan News) — Tigerair apologized to travelers on flight IT606, which departed Taipei for Busan, South Korea, on Friday (Oct. 18).
Upon approaching Busan International Airport, the flight could not land due to adverse weather and congestion from multiple flights awaiting clearance. The aircraft was ultimately rerouted to Daegu International Airport, reported TVBS. Further frustration ensued when passengers were unable to immediately deboard due to an unruly South Korean passenger, disrupting Tigerair’s operations over the weekend.
Flight IT606 departed Taiwan at 5:38 p.m. with an anticipated arrival in Busan around 9 p.m. However, worsening weather conditions led to two aborted landing attempts caused by wind and poor visibility, per UDN.
After circling near Busan, the flight could not proceed due to a strict 10 p.m. curfew for immigration and customs procedures. It was then diverted to Daegu International Airport, landing safely at 9:58 p.m.
On arrival in Daegu, authorities initially prohibited passengers from deboarding due to the local immigration and customs regulations. The captain informed passengers that the plane would either need to refuel and return to Taipei or remain on the ground until immigration resumed the following morning, per UDN.
This announcement prompted a South Korean passenger to become irate. The individual shouted and attempted to force his way to the exit, demanding to leave the aircraft.
The incident led the crew to contact airport security, resulting in renewed negotiations with Daegu’s immigration officials. Passengers were eventually allowed to disembark at around midnight.
After clearing immigration, Tigerair arranged shuttle buses to transport passengers to Busan. The plane, however, was required to stay overnight in Daegu, causing delays for six other Tigerair flights on Saturday (Oct. 19).
Reports did not specify the consequences for the unruly passenger, though Tigerair stated it intends to pursue legal action against him.