An evangelist influencer from Florida was removed from an Alaska Airlines flight on Thursday after she began preaching to fellow passengers during a delay. The incident occurred on Alaska Airlines flight 708 from Orlando International Airport, bound for San Diego.
Whitney Lynn, 40, documented the event in a series of videos posted to Instagram. In the footage, Lynn can be heard addressing passengers in the aisle, stating, "I know we’re all waiting. It’s kind of frustrating, right? this wait. But I want to tell you that God’s timing is perfect and God knows everything."
She continued, "And maybe he’s sparing us from danger today. So I want you to rest and know that Jesus Christ loves you so much that he died on the cross for your sins."
An airline staff member approached Lynn and informed her that the crew did not "feel safe" with her on board. When questioned about the reason for her removal, the employee stated that her behavior was affecting other guests and making crew members feel unsafe.
Lynn responded by questioning if the message of Jesus Christ was considered unsafe and if freedom of speech was no longer permitted. She described her actions as an act of "spiritual warfare," suggesting that "demons don’t like the name of Jesus."
Following her removal from the aircraft, Lynn was met by two members of airport personnel. Alaska Airlines confirmed the incident in a statement, noting that the flight crew "became increasingly concerned about a guest’s behavior on board the aircraft, which was also affecting other guests." The airline stated that the passenger was asked to deplane for safety reasons and that she will not be permitted to travel on their flights for the foreseeable future.
Lynn later shared an alleged email from Alaska Airlines Corporate Security indicating a temporary ban from the airline and its affiliates, including Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air. The email reportedly stated the decision was based on reports received regarding her recent travels and that a final decision would follow an investigation.
On social media, Lynn claimed that the incident led her to convert an airport shuttle driver and pray with a hotel desk clerk, viewing the experience as an opportunity to spread the gospel.