A man on a Frontier Airlines flight to Houston allegedly tried to break a plane window mid-flight, causing a terrifying scene before passengers and crew restrained him.
Raul Ramos Tamayo, 31, has been charged with destruction of aircraft or aircraft facilities, U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei announced. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
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Tamayo was on Frontier Airlines Flight 4856 from Denver to Houston on Feb. 4 when he allegedly started punching the seat in front of him about 30 minutes after takeoff. According to the Department of Justice, when flight crew members tried to intervene, he turned his fists to the window, hitting it hard enough to cause damage.
Realizing the potential danger, crew members called for help from law enforcement officers or strong passengers on board. Several stepped in and managed to restrain Tamayo with flex cuffs, authorities said.
The FBI is investigating the case, and Tamayo remains in custody on unrelated charges. His first court appearance is scheduled for March 3 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho.
“When the public flies, they need to feel confident that they are doing so under safe conditions,” Ganjei said. “The Southern District of Texas is always ready to prosecute those who endanger passengers.”
Passengers on board described the incident as terrifying. One person wrote on social media: “A man going crazy tried to break a window on our flight tonight while we were in the air! It was such a scary experience. I’m thankful for all the men that helped keep everyone safe!”
