Delta 462, an Airbus A321, was taxiing to the runway at LaGuardia Airport in Queens for its flight to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport when the passengers popped the door, a spokesperson for Delta told FOX 5 NY in an email.
Witnesses reported seeing an agitated-looking man, identified as Antonio Murdock, who was traveling with Brianna Greco, force open a cabin door and jump out using the emergency chute leading to the runway. He was quickly followed by the woman with the Great Dane puppy.
"The aircraft returned to the gate where the remaining customers deplaned normally and were accommodated on alternate flights," the spokesperson said. "Maintenance technicians have evaluated the aircraft and is scheduled to return to service this evening."
Delta 462 finally departed LaGuardia at 7:17 p.m., more than nine hours late, according to FlightAware.com.