Unruly passenger from New Jersey faces charges for trying to open doors on a plane mid-flight
Authorities say a passenger onboard an American Airlines flight engaged in disruptive and life-threatening behavior, including propositioning a flight attendant for sex.
More Stories
A man from Delanco Township is accused of being the reason a flight to Texas had to be diverted to Utah last month — and now, he is facing federal charges.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 26-year-old Eric Nicholas Gapco, who was a passenger onboard American Airlines flight #2101, assaulted and intimidated a flight attendant and aircraft crew members on July 18.
Authorities say Gapco vaped on the flight, bothered other passengers and locked himself in the bathroom. Things got worse after Gapco allegedly tried to open the doors of the plane multiple times while the aircraft was in flight. This is when the crew on board jumped into action, grabbed him and put restraints on his hands and feet, authorities said.
They say Gapco also failed to follow instructions to remain in his seat, propositioned a flight attendant for sex and was repeatedly loud.
The plane was flying from Seattle, Washington to Dallas, Texas but was diverted to Salt Lake City International Airport so Gapco could be taken off the plane. He was arrested by law enforcement when the plane landed.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office and Salt Lake City Police Department.
Gapco was charged with interference with a flight crew, and attempted damage to an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, according to authorities.
