Attempted Flight Hijacking by Twice-Deported Honduran National

A Honduran national, Rony Alexander Gomez-Alberto, was arrested after an attempted breach of the cockpit on a United Airlines flight. The incident occurred on Flight 2174 from Newark to New Orleans.

Background of the Suspect

Gomez-Alberto, previously deported from the United States twice, allegedly attempted to enter the cockpit while claiming to have a bomb. The report led to a hijacking alert during the flight.

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), he was detained by Border Patrol near El Indio, Texas, in 2011 and near Columbus, New Mexico, in 2014. He faced removal on both occasions. In 2019, he was apprehended again near San Ysidro, California.

Current Charges and Arrest

Following the incident on November 9, 2026, Gomez-Alberto was arrested by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. DHS confirmed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a detainer for him on November 10.

“On November 10, 2026, ICE lodged a detainer for Rony Alexander Gomez-Alberto, a criminal illegal alien from Honduras, with Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office after he attempted to gain entry to the cockpit during a flight,” noted a DHS spokesperson.

Gomez-Alberto faces charges of communicating false information about planned arson and terrorizing. DHS also noted offenses related to bomb threats, terroristic threats, and disorderly conduct.

Flight and Passenger Safety

The United Airlines flight, a Boeing 737 MAX 9 with 46 passengers and six crew members, landed safely in New Orleans. United Media Relations confirmed law enforcement’s presence upon the aircraft’s arrival.

A spokesperson for United Airlines acknowledged the disruptive incident, stating that law enforcement was involved. Additional information about the case was directed to local authorities.

DHS stated its stance on illegal entrants, emphasizing the non-acceptance of criminal illegal aliens in the country under President Trump and Secretary Mullin’s leadership.