Unruly Passenger from New Jersey Facing Charges for Disruptive Behavior on American Airlines Flight

Salt Lake City – A Burlington County man from New Jersey is in legal trouble after engaging in disruptive and potentially life-threatening behavior on an American Airlines flight. The incident occurred on July 18 during the Seattle-Dallas flight No. 2101, forcing the plane to be diverted to Salt Lake City.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Utah, the passenger, identified as Eric Nicholas Gapco, 26, of Delanco, New Jersey, reportedly assaulted and intimidated a flight attendant and other crew members. Gapco's disruptive actions included refusing to remain seated, propositioning a flight attendant for sexual favors, vaping on the aircraft, and repeatedly attempting to open the plane's exterior door.

Authorities further state that Gapco's behavior was not only loud and bothersome to other passengers but also escalated to the point where he locked himself in the bathroom. The flight crew managed to restrain him before the plane landed at Salt Lake City International Airport, where Gapco was subsequently arrested.

Gapco is currently facing charges of interference with a flight crew and attempted damage to an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. He is scheduled to make an initial appearance in Salt Lake City on August 1.

The safety and security of passengers and crew members on board an aircraft are of paramount importance. American Airlines commended the swift response of the flight crew and expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts in handling the unruly passenger.

Instances of disruptive behavior on flights have been on the rise in recent years, prompting airlines and authorities to take stricter measures to deter such incidents. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed civil penalties of up to $35,000 for unruly passengers who refuse to comply with airline policies and regulations during flights.

Passengers are reminded to adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by airlines and to treat flight crew members with respect and courtesy. Failure to do so not only jeopardizes the safety of everyone on board but also carries severe legal consequences.