A woman traveling from the Dominican Republic was arrested upon landing in Las Vegas on Tuesday, September 16, following reports of disruptive and threatening behavior on an American Airlines flight. Authorities state the passenger, Ketty Dilone, allegedly caused disturbances and assaulted a flight attendant during the journey.
Key Takeaways
- Ketty Dilone was arrested in Las Vegas after a flight from Punta Cana.
- She faces charges of interfering with a flight crew and assault.
- Reports indicate she yelled, threatened crew, and kicked a flight attendant.
- Dilone was restrained with zip ties and duct tape during the flight.
- The maximum penalty for these charges is 20 years in prison.
Flight Incident Details Emerge
Ketty Dilone was a passenger on an American Airlines flight originating from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Her itinerary included a connecting flight in Charlotte, North Carolina, before proceeding to Las Vegas, Nevada. The incident reportedly occurred during the second leg of her journey, specifically on the flight from Charlotte to Las Vegas.
According to a criminal complaint, Dilone began exhibiting disruptive behavior while the aircraft was in transit. Witnesses and flight crew reported that she walked through the cabin, yelling at various points. Her actions escalated to include threats directed at multiple flight attendants.
Incident Snapshot
- Date of Arrest: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
- Origin: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Connection: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Destination: Las Vegas, Nevada
- Airline: American Airlines
Crew Takes Action to Ensure Safety
The situation aboard the flight became serious enough to require intervention from the flight crew. Due to the escalating nature of Dilone's actions, crew members took steps to control her behavior and ensure the safety of other passengers and staff.
A press release detailing the incident confirmed that Dilone's behavior was both disruptive and threatening. As a result, she was physically restrained in her seat. The methods used for restraint included zip ties and duct tape. These measures are typically employed by flight crews in extreme circumstances to prevent further disruption or harm.
"Due to Dilone’s disruptive and threatening behavior, she had to be restrained in her seat with zip ties and duct tape," a press release stated.
Alleged Assault on Flight Attendant
The criminal complaint further alleges that during the incident, Dilone physically assaulted a flight attendant. It states that she kicked a flight attendant, causing the individual to fall. This alleged act of violence against a crew member is a serious federal offense, carrying significant penalties.
Incidents involving unruly passengers have become a growing concern for airlines and aviation authorities. Such events can compromise flight safety and create a hostile environment for both passengers and crew. Airlines often have strict policies and procedures in place to manage these situations.
Legal Charges and Potential Consequences
Following her arrest in Las Vegas, Ketty Dilone now faces two distinct federal charges. These charges are interference with a flight crew and assault. Both are serious offenses under federal law, designed to protect the safety and security of air travel.
Interference with a flight crew refers to any action that hinders or prevents a flight crew member from performing their duties. This can include verbal threats, physical actions, or any other behavior that disrupts the normal operation of a flight. Assault charges relate to the alleged physical attack on a flight attendant.
Aviation Security Context
Federal regulations mandate that all passengers comply with flight crew instructions. Interfering with a flight crew is a felony, reflecting the importance of maintaining order and safety in the confined environment of an aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has seen a rise in unruly passenger incidents in recent years, leading to increased enforcement actions.
The maximum penalty for these federal charges is severe. If convicted, Dilone could face up to 20 years in prison. The exact sentencing would depend on the specifics of the case, including the severity of the alleged assault and the extent of the interference with the flight crew's duties.
The case will proceed through the federal court system. This process typically involves an initial appearance, preliminary hearings, and potentially a trial. The outcome will be determined based on the evidence presented by prosecutors and the defense.
Impact on Air Travel and Passenger Conduct
This incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by the aviation industry regarding passenger conduct. Airlines and regulatory bodies continually emphasize the importance of respectful behavior during flights. They remind passengers that disruptive actions carry serious legal consequences.
Such events can also cause delays and diversions, affecting other travelers. The safety and comfort of everyone on board are paramount. Authorities encourage passengers to report any instances of unruly behavior to flight attendants immediately.
- Always follow flight crew instructions.
- Report disruptive behavior to staff.
- Understand that federal laws govern conduct on aircraft.
The incident serves as a reminder of the strict rules governing air travel. These rules are in place to protect all individuals involved in commercial flights. Authorities continue to investigate the full details surrounding Ketty Dilone's actions.
