American Airlines Flight Attendant Arrested After Drunken Rampage at DFW
An American Airlines flight attendant was arrested at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport after allegedly appearing for duty intoxicated, attempting to board a flight, and causing a disturbance. The incident, captured on police bodycam footage, involved the flight attendant, identified as Chris, exhibiting slurred speech and having his pants fall down while in uniform.
Key Takeaways
- An American Airlines flight attendant was arrested for public intoxication and assault.
- The incident occurred at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
- The flight attendant allegedly shoved gate staff, spat on an officer, and made racial remarks.
- He was reportedly about six weeks into his job and deadheading.
The Incident Unfolds
According to reports, police were called to the gate after the flight attendant "came barreling up the jet bridge" and reportedly shoved gate staff. Upon arrival, officers found the crewmember in uniform, visibly intoxicated, with his pants down. He admitted to consuming "a champagne and a half."
Confrontation and Arrest
During the encounter, the flight attendant resisted arrest, leading officers to call for leg restraints and a spit hood after he spat directly into an officer’s eye. He also allegedly made a racially targeted remark towards a supervisor. A search of his belongings revealed a stack of miniature liquor bottles.
Legal Ramifications
In the back of a police car, the flight attendant alternated between pleading to be released and continuing to agitate, kicking the car door. Officers informed him he could face charges for "felony criminal mischief" due to the potential damage. He was formally arrested for public intoxication, assault, and harassment of a public servant.
Background and Aftermath
Sources suggest the flight attendant was relatively new to the job, having been employed for approximately six weeks. There was speculation that he was meant to be the lead or purser on the flight and that the liquor bottles may have been taken from the aircraft. Online commenters have shared humorous, albeit harsh, observations about the incident. One individual claiming to be the flight attendant later stated on social media that this was his "rock bottom," that he had gone to rehab, was fired, and had been sober since the incident.
Airline Policy and Precedents
While some airlines may permit flight attendants to drink while deadheading under specific circumstances, there is generally a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol consumption while in uniform, especially when reporting for duty. This incident highlights the severe consequences of violating such policies.
