A passenger on an American Airlines flight who was found guilty of simple assault aboard a flight that was due to take off has been sentenced.
On April 19, 2022, Cynthia McKnight, 24, of Rochester, New York, was traveling by plane from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
When the plane was about to take off and the doors had been closed, McKnight started arguing with a passenger.
After the 24-year-old spat at another passenger, the American Airlines crew was forced to return to the gate.
And off into the sunset she goes folks 😂 pic.twitter.com/ig4FFtE5An
— Spencer Brown (@TooTallo_o) April 19, 2022
The airplane was then in motion when McKnight attempted to escape it, pushing a flight attendant who attempted to stop her from unlocking a door.
Managing to open the door, despite protests from flight attendants, the emergency slide automatically deployed, and McKnight used it to exit the aircraft.
She was captured on the tarmac by airport personnel and the transportation authority when she told she was drunk.
The passenger, according to sources, was not happy with the delay.
McKnight was sentenced to time served and three years probation by US District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
As part of her sentencing and plea agreement, McKnight agreed to pay $42,128 (£34,073).
Photo cover via twitter: @George K
