California Man Arrested for Assaulting Flight Attendants on Frontier Airlines Flight

A Fremont, California man was arrested by federal authorities after allegedly attacking flight attendants during a Frontier Airlines flight from Orange County to San Francisco, the U.S. Justice Department confirmed.

Charles Angel Salva, 30, of Fremont, was aboard Frontier Airlines Flight F9 213 from John Wayne Airport to San Francisco International Airport on Monday when the incident occurred shortly after takeoff. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Salva pulled down an oxygen mask from the overhead compartment and began shouting obscenities at the flight attendants, declaring, “We are all going to hell. This airplane is going down!”

Salva then reportedly grabbed at passengers and fled to the rear of the aircraft as flight attendants attempted to restrain him. Passengers intervened, using seat belts to help restrain Salva after he escaped from flex cuffs. During the altercation, Salva allegedly tried to choke one flight attendant and kicked another approximately six times, resulting in bruising and swelling.

Federal officials stated that Salva also threatened to kill everyone on board. Due to the severity of the situation, the flight was diverted to Ontario International Airport in San Bernardino County, as the flight crew felt unsafe attempting to return Salva to his seat.

A passenger later informed authorities that Salva appeared claustrophobic and seemed intent on exiting the plane. On Wednesday, Salva was formally charged with interference with flight crew members and attendants. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison.

This incident highlights the increasing concerns over passenger behavior and flight safety. Frontier Airlines has not yet released an official statement regarding the arrest.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com