San Francisco, California – A violent incident unfolded on United Airlines Flight 2247 from San Francisco to Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia on Monday. Court documents describe a disturbing scene where a man, identified as Everett Chad Nelson, allegedly launched an unprovoked attack on a sleeping male passenger two hours into the flight, punching him repeatedly until blood was drawn. Nelson’s assault reportedly lasted for about a minute before other passengers and the flight crew intervened to restrain him.
According to a criminal affidavit, the victim did not fight back during the attack, with Nelson allegedly assaulting him without warning. United Airlines praised the quick response of the crew and passengers in subduing Nelson, ensuring the aircraft landed safely and was met by medical personnel and law enforcement upon arrival.
The FBI has subsequently launched an investigation into the incident, as unruly passenger behavior on commercial flights continues to be a prevalent issue. The Federal Aviation Administration disclosed that airlines have already reported over 1,700 such incidents in the current year. In response, the FAA emphasized their commitment to pursuing legal action against individuals who disrupt flight operations, including imposing substantial fines of up to $37,000 for each violation.
Public records indicate that Nelson is currently being represented by a public defender, although no official statement has been issued on his behalf. It remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will unfold in light of the criminal charges brought against him.
As the aviation industry grapples with a rise in disruptive passenger incidents, authorities and airlines are under increasing pressure to address these concerns and ensure the safety and security of all individuals on board. The incident on United Airlines Flight 2247 serves as a stark reminder of the importance of swift intervention and proper enforcement of regulations to maintain order and prevent further disruptions during air travel.