Knifeman who boarded a Chicago flight not linked to terrorism

A man who boarded a United Airlines flight carrying nine knives, tear gas and a stun gun has not been linked to any terrorist activity.

Subash Gurung has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon and attempting to board an aircraft with weapons.

Eight workers, including a supervisor, have been suspended while investigations continue into the incident at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.

"There is no allegation that this incident involves any suspected terrorist activity," the FBI said in a statement.

Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta has recommended United Airlines be fined and security personnel be given more training.

"When there are screw ups, there's going to be a sting," he said.

Gurung, 27, appeared in court on Monday on a federal charge of attempting to carry a weapon on an aircraft.

He was held pending a preliminary hearing on Thursday. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

A spokesman for the US attorney's office said later there is "no nefarious or suspicious purpose" related to the man's intended flight from Chicago to Omaha, Nebraska, according to reports.