Fight on board a Southwest Airlines flight: what participants of the fistfight may expect
Two passengers who engaged in a fistfight on a Southwest Airlines flight last week may face severe consequences. They could be subject to fines and criminal charges amounting to up to $37,000.
The disturbing altercation was captured on video during a flight from Oakland, California, to Lihue, Kauai. As reported by Simple Flying, travelers found guilty of disruptive or violent behavior can face various penalties:
- Imprisonment: If incidents involving unruly passengers are referred to the FBI.
- Fines: The FAA has the authority to levy fines of up to $37,000 for each violation.
- Loss of privileges: Disruptive behavior could impact eligibility for TSA pre-screening or result in placement on an airline's internal no-fly list.
Flight WN1288 departed from Oakland International Airport (OAK) on Monday, February 12, and was headed to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport in Keahole (KOA).
A video that went viral on social media depicts the two men exchanging punches while other passengers attempt to diffuse the situation.
It is unclear what may have precipitated the violence, but passengers and crew managed to diffuse the situation, and the flight arrived safely at KOA at 13:41 local time without any further incidents.
Southwest Airlines confirmed the altercation and expressed gratitude to those who intervened.
Police responded to the incident upon landing, but no arrests were made. The FAA is conducting an investigation.
