A United Airlines passenger is facing federal charges after authorities say she attempted to open an aircraft door midflight and assaulted a flight attendant after being denied more alcohol.
According to the New York Post, 36-year-old Kristina Kedysheva was traveling on a United Airlines flight from Italy to Newark, New Jersey, on Tuesday when crew members noticed she was allegedly slurring her words and behaving erratically. Investigators said Kedysheva repeatedly demanded more alcohol during the flight and began filming crew members after they refused to serve her. She also allegedly accused the flight attendants of being “racist.”
Authorities Say Passenger Tried to Open Aircraft Door
After being instructed to return to her seat, Kedysheva allegedly walked toward the rear of the aircraft and attempted to open one of the plane’s doors.
According to investigators, five flight attendants, along with several passengers, worked together to restrain her before she could reach the exit. During the struggle, authorities allege Kedysheva bit one flight attendant on the wrist and kicked the crew member in the stomach, causing breathing difficulties and an injured shoulder.
The aircraft was diverted to Bangor, Maine, shortly after noon so law enforcement could respond.
Passenger Faces Federal Charges
After the plane landed, Kedysheva was taken into custody by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers and FBI special agents.
Speaking through a Russian interpreter, she told investigators she was traveling to New York to celebrate a friend’s 40th birthday. She also admitted to drinking three glasses of red wine and a whiskey several hours before boarding the flight, according to investigators.
Kedysheva claimed the flight crew was rude after refusing to serve her additional alcohol.
She appeared in federal court in Penobscot County, Maine, on Wednesday and has been charged with interference with a flight crew member and assault.