Edmond Alexandre, Interference with Flight Crew Members, Massachusetts 2014

Disruptive Passenger Causes Flight Diversion

BOSTON – A Haitian national’s behavior on a transatlantic American Airlines flight led to a dramatic diversion and a subsequent court conviction.

Edmond Alexandre, 60, a Haitian national residing in Paris, was sentenced to one year of supervised release, a fine of $1,000, and restitution of $6,303 to American Airlines for interfering with flight crew members.

On Aug. 27, 2014, at 7:00pm, American Airlines Flight 62 departed Miami, Fla. en route to Paris, France. At 9:00pm, Alexandre, a passenger on the plane, became disruptive and started arguing with other passengers.

A flight crew member intervened, and attempted to calm Alexandre down. Unable to do so, the flight crew member walked away towards the back of the plane at which time Alexandre raised his voice again, chased the crew member down the aisle towards the back of the plane, and grabbed the crew member’s arm.

Immediately, federal air marshals, who were on the plane, identified themselves and subdued Alexandre. Alexandre was taken into custody, and the captain of the plane diverted the flight to Boston’s Logan Airport. Alexandre was removed from the plane and taken into custody. Four hours later, the flight received clearance and departed for Paris.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz praised the swift action of the flight crew and federal air marshals in ensuring the safety of all passengers.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.

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