He then targeted one of the passengers who was filming and started attacking him while also threatening him verbally. CBS News accessed an FBI affidavit stating, "At one point, he struck (the victim) in the face near his left eye, causing bruising and a bloodshot eye. "
Rulamka also attempted to assault a second passenger who managed to dodge him but sustained minor injuries in the process. Court documents revealed that Rulamka "started running up and down the cabin" before being subdued by three passengers and flight attendants.
Once the plane landed, Rulamka was handed over to law enforcement officers. He is scheduled for a federal court appearance in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday for a preliminary hearing.
The affidavit noted that upon questioning by authorities, Rulamka made several statements including his intention to speak with President Trump. "Upon the flight's arrival," said the affidavit, "the defendant made several statements, including that he had come to D.C. to speak to President Trump. "
This incident adds to a growing list of unruly passenger behaviors on flights worldwide. Instances have increased significantly since during and after the COVID-19 pandemic when stress levels were notably high among travelers.
In another recent case, video footage showed a disruptive passenger on a Frontier Airlines flight being restrained by fellow travelers. That individual now faces charges of "destruction of aircraft or aircraft facilities" with potential penalties reaching up to twenty years in prison and fines totaling $200,000.
Such incidents not only disturb fellow passengers but can also incur financial costs for airlines if flights need diverting due to safety concerns. In February, United Airlines had such an experience when their San Francisco- Chicago route needed rerouting via Denver because of an unruly traveler onboard.
Alerts Sign-up
