American Airlines Passenger Indicted for Attempting to Open Plane Doors Mid-Flight

An American Airlines passenger has been formally charged by a federal grand jury after reportedly attempting to open the aircraft’s exterior doors during a flight. This incident led to his indictment on serious charges including interference with a flight crew and attempted damage to an aircraft.

Disturbing Mid-Flight Incident Leads to Emergency Diversion

Eric Nicholas Gapco, 26, from Delanco, New Jersey, was aboard American Airlines flight #2101 from Seattle, Washington to Dallas, Texas, when he allegedly engaged in disruptive behavior that endangered the safety of everyone on board. According to the official court documents, Gapco assaulted and intimidated the flight crew, failed to comply with instructions to stay seated, made inappropriate propositions to a flight attendant, and was disruptive towards other passengers. His actions culminated in repeated attempts to open the aircraft’s exterior doors, prompting an emergency diversion of the flight to Salt Lake City International Airport.

Upon the plane’s landing, Gapco was restrained by the flight crew and other passengers using flexible restraints, and was subsequently arrested by law enforcement officers awaiting at the airport.

Legal Proceedings Set in Motion

The indictment details that Gapco faces charges related to interference with a flight crew and attempts to damage the aircraft. He is scheduled for his initial court appearance on August 1, 2024, at the United States District Courthouse in Salt Lake City, as announced by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah, Trina A. Higgins.

Investigation and Prosecution Efforts

The case is under joint investigation by the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office and the Salt Lake City Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is handling the prosecution, underscoring the severity of the allegations and the federal interest in maintaining safety and order in air travel.

This incident highlights the serious consequences of disruptive behavior on flights, emphasizing the critical need for passengers to adhere to flight protocols and respect the safety of fellow travelers and crew.

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