What looked like a normal departure from Salt Lake City International Airport in the U.S. turned ugly on Oct. 2, 2025. A 31-year-old passenger was arrested after allegedly attacking and sexually assaulting a Delta Airlines employee, according to local reports. The incident is a stark reminder how dangerous drunk people could be.The incidentAs per police records, a woman named Cody Sierra Marie Bryne was boarding a Delta flight from Salt Lake City to Portland. When a member of the cabin crew asked her to move away from the aisle, the woman refused to do so. She later allegedly pushed a Delta employee with her shoulder into a seat. She was soon taken off the aircraft by crew. She then entered a secure area and assaulted a female Delta employee by grabbing her neck and hair before attempting to flee. She was soon arrested on multiple chargers, including sexual assault and public intoxication, among others. Why the incident matters for travellersThis is not the first time that a passenger has assaulted an airline employee in a drunk state. Though these incidents are rare, such happenings cause trauma to staff and passengers, alike. U.S. carriers and federal authorities have already mentioned that assaulting airline crew or workers is a criminal offence with serious consequences. Airlines emphasise a “zero-tolerance” approach to intoxicated behaviour. Alcohol rules A major factor in misbehaviour incidents is alcohol. So it is extremely crucial to understand the rules: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows little quantities of alcohol in carry-ons and larger quantities in checked luggage under specific limitsFederal aviation rules bar passengers from drinking their own alcohol on board unless it is served by the airline. This means bringing mini bottles through security does not allow a passenger to drink them on board. How such incidents affects travel plans
Flight delays: One of the major issues is flight delays. When the crew remove a passenger or police board a flight, it all consumes a lot of time. Documentation and statements: It also gets problematic for fellow passengers especially If a passenger is a witness. You may be asked to give a statement about the incident. Safety and comfort: Such behavioural issues can be distressing for fellow passengers. If you feel unsafe, inform the crew immediately.So it is advised to passengers to report any suspicious or aggressive behaviour much before. Also know the alcohol rules. You cannot drink your own alcohol on board as it is not allowed. If you’ve consumed heavily before boarding, consider cancelling or deboarding travel. Also keep valuables protected.In short, air travel involves several strangers sitting together. But when alcohol comes in, a moment of poor judgment can have wide consequences for staff and passengers. It is important to stay aware and follow crew instructions. Avoid consumption/over-consumption of alcohol. These are some simple yet effective ways to travel safe.
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