Finns Party Member of Parliament Tomi Immonen. Police removed Finns Party MP from Finnair flight. LEHTIKUVA
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A Finnair flight to Bangkok was delayed by nearly an hour on Saturday after police removed a disruptive passenger, according to a report by Iltalehti. The passenger was identified as Tomi Immonen, a first-term Member of Parliament representing the Finns Party and a retired lieutenant colonel.
Police confirmed they were called to Helsinki Airport to handle the incident after the passenger refused to comply with crew instructions.
“The passenger caused a disturbance on board and did not leave the aircraft despite being asked. Police were required to intervene,” said Inspector Olavi Merihaara of the Eastern Uusimaa Police Department.
No passengers were injured during the incident.
An eyewitness told Iltalehti that the passenger, who appeared intoxicated, argued loudly with cabin crew upon boarding. Several others contacted the news outlet to describe the event.
“He was standing in the plane’s entry area, arguing with the crew. He loudly declared he was an MP and a former officer, saying his name was Tomi Immonen,” one witness reported.
Witnesses also described a “loud scene” lasting approximately 40 minutes. The passenger reportedly insisted he posed no security risk, emphasising his frequent flyer status and military background.
“Security personnel and police eventually arrived. I heard a loud order instructing him to exit the plane,” another witness said.
Police confirmed that Immonen was escorted off the aircraft and his journey postponed.
“Removing a passenger from a plane is never ideal. Disruptive behaviour affects many travellers, and it is essential for everyone to fulfil their responsibilities while travelling,” police stated.
The flight, scheduled to depart at 8:50 p.m., eventually left at 9:58 p.m., according to Finavia.
Inspector Merihaara noted that disruptive passengers can be held liable for costs incurred due to delays, though any decision on compensation would be made by a court.
“Such situations are taken seriously. Airlines and other passengers face inconvenience and financial losses when these incidents occur,” he said.
Contacted by Iltalehti on Sunday morning, Immonen initially expressed surprise at the inquiry.
“Everything is fine, and I don’t know why you’re calling. I will provide further details if necessary,” he said.
Later, in a text message, Immonen admitted to a disagreement with the crew, which arose after they deemed him too intoxicated to board.
“Their decision surprised me, especially as my friend, who suffers from memory loss, was left to travel alone. I tried to negotiate to stay on the flight. I even asked the police to perform a breathalyser test, which they declined,” he wrote.
Immonen apologised for the delay caused and stated he underwent a voluntary breathalyser test after the incident, which showed a reading of 0.69.
“I sincerely apologise to everyone whose travel plans were disrupted and to Finnair staff who had to handle the situation,” he added.
The Finns Party MP represents the Central Finland electoral district.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
