Caught On Cam: American Airlines Passenger Faces USD 81,950 Fine For 2021 Mid-Air Meltdown

A 34-year-old woman from the US, who typically flies business class, is facing mammoth legal costs for a 2021 mid-air incident when she behaved erratically during a flight from Dallas to Charlotte.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has sued Heather Wells for failing to pay the $81,950 fine to American Airlines imposed on her for her violent and disruptive actions during the flight. The incident occurred in July 2021, when Wells, a San Antonio native, was served a Jack Daniels neat during beverage service about an hour into the flight, the New York Post reported.

Wells’ behaviour rapidly deteriorated, with her becoming increasingly agitated and attempting to open the main cabin door. She threatened a flight attendant, pushed him aside, and continued towards the front of the plane. Wells was eventually restrained by two flight attendants and a passenger using duct tape and flex cuffs.

Despite being seated, she continued to kick, spit, and attempt to bite and head-butt the crew and other passengers. The situation escalated further when she managed to break free from her restraints and began kicking again while the plane was taxiing to the gate. Law enforcement was called to the scene, and Wells was sedated before being removed from the aircraft.

The FAA alleges that Wells violated federal aviation rules by trying to access the flight cabin, interfering with the flight crew, threatening them, and posing an imminent threat to the safety of the aircraft or individuals on board. This is the largest fine handed out by the FAA to date.

The rise in unruly passenger incidents continues, with 915 cases reported between January 1 and June 9 this year, including 106 cases of passenger disturbances due to intoxication. The FAA implemented a Zero-Tolerance Policy in 2021, opting to issue fines instead of warning letters or counseling. Unruly passengers face civil penalties of up to $37,000 per violation.