At least 15 flights at Los Angeles International Airport were delayed early Thursday as authorities look for a man who didn't undergo proper security screening.
LAX spokeswoman Nancy Castles said the man was picked out for secondary screening but instead picked up his carry-on bag and went on through at Terminal 7 around 5 a.m. Thursday.
The man and his bag were found at about 6:30 a.m. The passenger was "re-screened with negative findings," and he was allowed to continue on his flight, Castles said.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that the man made an "innocent mistake."
LAX terminals 5, 6 and 7 were shut down for 90 minutes as authorities searched for the man. All three terminals are connected by underground passenger tunnels.
The terminals house United, Continental, Delta and smaller airlines.
Unscreened passengers had to wait until the man was located. That caused a major backup and lines extended well outside the airport.
Castles said more flights could be affected because its the morning peak travel time.
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