Unruly behavior prompts Delta flight diversion; FAA maintains zero-tolerance policy

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Unruly behavior prompts Delta flight diversion; FAA maintains zero-tolerance policy

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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

By Sky Industry News

Dec 25, 2024

A Delta Air Lines flight from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport to Harry Reid International Airport was forced to divert to Kansas City International Airport on December 23 due to an unruly passenger. The incident occurred shortly after the Airbus A321 took off, as reported by Flightradar24. The aircraft was cruising at 34,000 feet before descending toward Kansas City.

Delta Airlines addressed the situation in a statement provided to FOX19 NOW, saying, "Delta flight 2915 from Cincinnati (CVG) to Las Vegas (LAS) on Dec. 23 diverted to Kansas City (MCI) to remove an unruly customer. Delta has zero tolerance for unruly behavior and will work with law enforcement authorities to that end. We apologize to our customers for the delay in their travel."

This incident is part of a growing trend of flight diversions and delays caused by disruptive passengers. Recently, a Southwest Airlines flight from Arizona to Ohio returned to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport following an altercation between two passengers shortly after takeoff.

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In another case involving United Airlines, a passenger allegedly attacked another traveler during a flight from San Francisco International Airport to Washington Dulles International Airport. United stated, "Thanks to the quick action of our crew and customers, one passenger was restrained after becoming physically aggressive toward another customer … The flight landed safely and was met by paramedics and local law enforcement."

Similarly, an Etihad Airways passenger was charged with lewd acts during a Boston-bound flight after allegedly making unwanted advances toward a female passenger.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding unruly passenger behavior. It highlights that such incidents have been increasing since 2021. The FAA can impose fines up to $37,000 per violation, which may include multiple penalties for one incident. Additionally, offenders risk losing TSA PreCheck eligibility and being placed on internal no-fly lists by airlines.