So-called unruly PAX repeatedly cause disruptions in air traffic due to massive misconduct. This often results in at least a temporary arrest and occasionally airlines also claim damages. In the USA, a woman was ordered to pay American Airlines $38.952.

On February 13, 2022, a woman who was on board a flight from Phoenix to Honolulu literally freaked out. She is said to have initially made insults on board and subsequently threatened passengers and crew members significantly. This was too much for the crew and the captain decided to return to Phoenix Airport to unload the unruly PAX.

There the woman was received by the police and initially taken for questioning. A criminal conviction followed in September 2023. She was sentenced to three months in prison. However, this was placed on probation for three years under the supervision of a social worker. The lady pleaded guilty before the judge, which was interpreted as a mitigating factor.

Regardless of the criminal part, American Airlines also claimed the additional costs incurred for the return landing and the resulting flight delay in civil court. A US district court has ruled that she must pay the airline a sum of $38.952, plus attorneys' fees and court costs.

How she will raise this sum is still completely unclear. In any case, American Airlines was open to paying in installments. The carrier is probably less concerned with the money flowing immediately, but rather with the deterrent effect that massive misconduct - especially threats against passengers and crew - is an expensive matter.

The criminal court gave the woman a strict probation requirement. During the three years mentioned, she may only board commercial aircraft if she first applies for and receives permission from the court. Otherwise she would have to begin her prison sentence immediately.