ORLANDO, FLORIDA – A young teenage girl has taken legal action against Delta Air Lines, accusing the airline of negligence following a traumatic sexual assault incident that occurred during a flight from Los Angeles to Orlando. The lawsuit claims that the flight attendants failed to take appropriate action, serving alcohol to the assailant and neglecting to restrain him afterwards.
The 13-year-old victim, identified as Z.B., was on a family trip when the assault took place on June 23, 2022. The assailant, Brian Patrick Durning, was sentenced to five years in prison for the attack. However, the repercussions of the incident continue to affect the victim, her young brother, and their mother, who were also present on the flight.
According to court documents, Delta Air Lines allegedly “enabled” the attack by serving alcohol to Durning, who was visibly intoxicated when he boarded the flight. The lawsuit further claims that Durning began harassing Z.B. during the overnight flight, touching her inappropriately and making disturbing comments.
Despite the family’s pleas for assistance, the flight attendants reportedly did not intervene effectively. Durning continued to harass the family throughout the flight, even after being moved to a different seat. The lawsuit alleges that Durning was allowed to roam the cabin, harassing Z.B. and other passengers.
The traumatic incident has had lasting effects on Z.B., causing nightmares, post-traumatic stress, depression, and panic attacks. Her academic performance has suffered, and she has developed a negative reaction to physical contact. Similarly, her brother has experienced anxiety and fear of flying since the assault, impacting his daily life.
The family’s lawsuit seeks compensation for the damages suffered, including lost earnings and emotional distress. Delta Air Lines has declined to comment on the legal action. The case was transferred to federal court due to the significant amount of damages sought and the interstate nature of the parties involved.
In the wake of this harrowing ordeal, the family hopes to hold the airline accountable for their alleged role in enabling the assault. The legal proceedings aim to shed light on the importance of airline safety and the responsibility of carriers to protect passengers from harm while in their care.