A Las Vegas resident, Ketty J. Dilone, was arrested on Tuesday after an American Airlines flight. She faces charges of interfering with a flight crew and assault. The incident occurred on a flight connecting from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Las Vegas on September 16, 2025. Authorities took Dilone into custody upon the aircraft's arrival at Harry Reid International Airport.
Key Takeaways
- Ketty J. Dilone faces federal charges for a flight incident.
- Charges include interference with flight crew and assault.
- The alleged incident took place on an American Airlines flight.
- Dilone was restrained by flight attendants during the flight.
- She could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Details of the Flight Incident
The criminal complaint filed in federal court outlines the events that led to Dilone's arrest. According to court statements and the complaint, the incident began during the final leg of an American Airlines journey. The flight originated in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and had a scheduled connection in Charlotte, North Carolina.
During the segment from Charlotte to Las Vegas, Dilone allegedly exhibited disruptive behavior. Witnesses reported that she walked through the aircraft cabin, yelling at crew members. Her actions escalated, and she reportedly began verbally threatening several flight attendants.
Fast Fact
Federal law prohibits interfering with flight crew members or flight attendants. This includes assaulting, intimidating, or threatening them while they are performing their duties.
Crew Takes Action to Ensure Safety
Due to the severity of Dilone's alleged behavior, flight attendants intervened. They determined that her actions posed a threat to the safety and order of the flight. To control the situation, crew members physically restrained Dilone.
They used zip ties and duct tape to secure her in her seat. This measure is typically taken in extreme circumstances to prevent further disruption or harm. During this process, Dilone allegedly kicked one flight attendant, causing the individual to fall.
"Ensuring the safety and security of passengers and crew is the highest priority for airlines. Disruptive passenger behavior is taken very seriously and can lead to severe legal consequences," a spokesperson for airline safety regulations stated.
Arrival and Arrest
Upon the American Airlines flight's arrival at Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, law enforcement was already on standby. Officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department responded to the gate. They took Ketty J. Dilone into custody immediately after the aircraft landed.
Her initial court appearance took place shortly after her arrest on Tuesday. The federal charges stem from her alleged conduct during the flight. Such incidents are investigated by federal authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in coordination with local law enforcement.
Legal Context of Air Travel Incidents
Incidents involving unruly passengers on commercial flights fall under federal jurisdiction. Laws such as 49 U.S.C. § 46504, which addresses interference with flight crew members and attendants, carry significant penalties. These laws are designed to maintain order and safety in the confined environment of an aircraft.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Ketty J. Dilone faces two specific federal charges. The first charge is one count of interference with a flight crew. This charge applies when a person assaults or intimidates a flight crew member or flight attendant, interfering with their duties.
The second charge is one count of assault by striking, beating, or wounding. This likely relates to the alleged incident where she kicked a flight attendant, causing them to fall. Both charges are serious federal offenses.
- Charge 1: Interference with a flight crew.
- Charge 2: Assault by striking, beating, or wounding.
If convicted of these charges, Dilone could face a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The final sentence, if any, will be determined by a federal district court judge. This judge would consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, along with other relevant statutory factors, during the sentencing process.
Upcoming Weather in Las Vegas
Separately, the weather forecast for Las Vegas indicates a change in conditions for Thursday and Friday. Thunderstorms and rain are expected in the area. This weather outlook is unrelated to the flight incident but is part of the general regional news.
Travelers arriving or departing from Las Vegas during this period should monitor local weather advisories. Inclement weather can sometimes lead to flight delays or cancellations, although no direct impact on Dilone's case is implied by this forecast.
Statistics on Unruly Passengers
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported 2,455 unruly passenger incidents in 2021, a significant increase from previous years. While these numbers have decreased, incidents continue to be a concern for airlines and regulators. Approximately 80% of reported incidents involve passengers refusing to comply with mask mandates, although the Las Vegas incident occurred after federal mandates were lifted.
The legal proceedings against Ketty J. Dilone will continue in federal court. Further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses through the justice system. The focus remains on the safety protocols and legal ramifications associated with disruptive behavior during air travel.
