A couple was arrested at Miami International Airport after allegedly trying to board an American Airlines flight without permission. The situation escalated into a physical altercation, with one of them reportedly throwing coffee at an airline staff member, according to the police.
The incident happened on Sunday as passengers were preparing to board American Airlines Flight 2494 from Miami to Cancún. According to a police report from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, Rafael Seirafe-Novaes and Beatriz Rapoport-De-Campos-Maia ignored security signs and verbal warnings from a ticket agent. The couple allegedly pushed past the agent and others in an attempt to enter the jet bridge leading to the plane.
Authorities stated that after being denied boarding, the couple became angry and physically shoved two airline staff members. Rapoport-De-Campos-Maia then allegedly threw coffee at them, further escalating the situation.
American Airlines released a statement condemning the incident, saying, “Acts of violence are not tolerated by American Airlines, and we are committed to working closely with law enforcement in their investigation.”
Both Seirafe-Novaes and Rapoport-De-Campos-Maia have been charged with two counts of battery and one count of trespassing after being warned. In addition, Seirafe-Novaes faces an extra charge of resisting an officer without violence, as he allegedly pulled his arms away while being arrested.
Following the altercation, police took the couple into custody and transported them to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami. It remains unclear whether they have legal representation to speak on their behalf.
The investigation is ongoing, and American Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its passengers and staff. Authorities are continuing to look into the details of the case to determine the next legal steps.
This incident comes as airlines continue to face challenges with unruly passengers. In recent years, airports and airlines have been tightening security measures to prevent unauthorized boarding and ensure smooth travel for all passengers.
The case highlights the importance of following airline security procedures and respecting staff instructions to avoid such disruptions. As authorities proceed with their investigation, more details may emerge about what led to this confrontation and its legal consequences for the individuals involved.
