A Delta Airlines pilot was arrested by federal agents Saturday night moments after landing in San Francisco, shocking passengers and flight crew.
The flight had just arrived from Minneapolis shortly after 9:30 p.m. when at least 10 federal agents — including officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) — boarded the aircraft and took the pilot into custody.
Arrest Linked to Child Exploitation Investigation
The arrest is reportedly tied to a disturbing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) investigation, according to law enforcement sources.
The pilot’s name has not yet been released. Fox Business confirmed the charges are part of an ongoing probe led by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, with support from federal agents.
Passengers and Crew Caught Off Guard
Passengers onboard described a chaotic scene as agents stormed the cockpit without warning.
“A group of people with badges, guns, and different agency vests were pushing their way up through the aisle,” passenger Sarah Christianson told the San Francisco Chronicle. “They stormed the cockpit and marched the pilot down the jet bridge.”
Even the flight crew appeared confused, with the co-pilot announcing over the intercom, “I have no idea what just happened.”
After the arrest, another team of agents came aboard to collect the pilot’s bags.
Feds Assist Local Investigation
HSI, a division of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), confirmed its involvement in executing the arrest warrant, stating the case is part of a local investigation out of Contra Costa County.
It is not yet known whether the pilot’s immigration status played any role in the investigation.
Homeland Security has been a key agency in several high-profile crackdowns since President Trump restructured federal enforcement priorities.
