FBI Investigates Midair Brawl That Forged Breeze Airways Flight Diversion

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating a midair brawl on a Breeze Airways flight that forced it to divert to Grand Junction, Colorado. The incident occurred on a flight en route from Norfolk International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport, where a passenger initiated a physical altercation with other guests and flight attendants, prompting the flight to change its course. The airline confirmed the event, stating that a male passenger, who appeared intoxicated, became agitated and began shouting racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard. Despite being placed in restraints twice, the man broke free both times, leading to the diversion. The Grand Junction Police Department reported that the passenger was taken into custody by the FBI and is currently held at the Mesa County Detention Facility. The airline mentioned that one flight attendant and one guest were assessed for minor injuries, though no injuries were reported by law enforcement. Breeze Airways, a U.S.-based low-cost airline launched by JetBlue founder David Neeleman in May 2021, stated that its immediate focus is on ensuring the safety and well-being of its crew and passengers following the incident. The airline also emphasized its commitment to customer care, stating it is working to ensure that remaining passengers are safely transported to their final destinations as quickly as possible. The incident highlights the challenges faced by low-cost carriers in maintaining safety and order on board, especially during long-haul flights. The FBI has not yet released details about the investigation, stating that any further information will be made available when appropriate. In addition to the flight diversion, the FBI’s involvement underscores the serious nature of the incident, which could have led to potential legal consequences for the involved parties. The airline has also shared details about its fare options, emphasizing its mission to serve a wide range of destinations with affordable travel costs, including smaller airports that are not typically served by larger carriers. The recent incident, while unfortunate, is a reminder of the importance of maintaining safety and order on commercial flights, regardless of the airline or route.