Hossein Dehnavifard, 37, of Iran arrived late at Pittsburgh International Airport in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States just after 4:30 p.m. on May 10, 2023. He was refused entry on his American Airlines flight to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

After airport staff refused to allow Dehnavifard to board, he allegedly told the American Airlines gate agents that his luggage contained a bomb. At least two airline employees confirmed hearing it.

More than 100 passengers on the American Airlines flight were deboarded. Allegheny County Police Department officers and Federal Bureau of Investigation agents searched the aircraft.

Police K-9s trained in the detection of explosive odor and x-ray machines were used to search the aircraft and luggage on board. No threat was found on the aircraft or luggage, including the two checked bags belonging to Dehnavifard.

Dehnavifard was arrested. He was taken to the Allegheny County Jail in Pittsburgh for arraignment.

The Iranian national was charged with terroristic threats and threat to use weapons of mass destruction. The Transportation Security Administration may impose a civil penalty.