Charlotte, North Carolina – An American Airlines flight attendant from Charlotte, North Carolina, faces charges after allegedly attempting to secretly record a 14-year-old girl in an airplane bathroom in September. Estes Carter Thompson III, 36, was indicted on charges of attempted sexual exploitation of children and possession of images of child sexual abuse involving a minor.
The incident occurred during a flight from Charlotte to Boston, where the teenager discovered a hidden iPhone in the aircraft bathroom. Investigators say Thompson directed the girl to use the first-class lavatory, claiming the main cabin one was occupied. Upon entering, she found red stickers under the toilet seat lid, concealing the recording device. The girl managed to capture evidence of the concealed iPhone using her own phone before leaving the bathroom.
Thompson was arrested in January 2024 in Lynchburg, Virginia, and has been in federal custody since then. Prosecutors found multiple instances of recorded minors in aircraft lavatories on Thompson’s iCloud account. The individuals in the recordings were aged seven, nine, 11, and 14, with authorities contacting their families.
Both charges against Thompson carry significant penalties, including sentences ranging from 15 to 30 years for attempted sexual exploitation of children and up to 20 years for possessing images of child sexual abuse. Additionally, the charges allow for supervised release, fines up to $250,000, and restitution.
American Airlines stated that Thompson was immediately removed from service and had not worked since the discovery of the phone. The investigation revealed four additional instances of Thompson recording minors in airplane bathrooms between January and August 2023.
Authorities urge anyone with information related to this case or other instances of child abuse to contact the appropriate hotlines for assistance and reporting. The seriousness of the charges and the allegations highlight the importance of vigilance and prompt action in safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse.