Travelers might rave about the destination, but no one ever says, “I can’t wait to sit in a pressurized metal tube for 10 hours.” Unless, of course, they’re turning left at the boarding door to be gleefully greeted with a glass of champagne—but that’s a story for another day.

Hall of Shame: Recent Lowlights

This report is all about the ‘not-so-fun’ times in the air—that is, if the plane even took off. Since 21PP (#10MTNtrademark!), aka post-pandemic 2021, over 14,000 unruly passenger reports have been logged in the U.S. alone.

Yes, you read that correctly. These aren’t just “Karens” (apologies to all the nice Karens out there) on TikTok; these are official reports from airlines to the FAA. Here is the breakdown:

• 2021 (the worst year): 5,973 reports
• 2022: 2,453 reports
• 2023: 2,074 reports
• 2024: 2,096 reports
• 2025: 1,621 reports
• As of May 2026: 544 reports

While that 2021 spike is staggering, the downward trend since then gives us a glimmer of hope that we’re becoming civil again. It turns out people don’t actually want to end up on Inside Edition or a starring role in your grandma’s Insta Reels.

Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself

Here’s a warning to cool your jets…yes, airplane humor ensues. Now, the FAA is referring cases of bad behavior to the FBI. Once that happens, you’ll be fresh out of snacks (and the yokes will keep climbing to 30,000 feet). According to the FAA’s website, incident referrals to the FBI could result in a felony conviction. AND The FAA can fine a violator up to $43,658 per violation for unruly passenger cases. One incident can result in multiple fines, and the government doesn’t take airline miles as payment.

Since 2021, the FAA has referred over 310 of the most serious cases to the FBI for criminal prosecution. We’re talking about attempts to breach the cockpit, physical battery, and sexual misconduct.

10MTN Insight: A felony on your record means more than just losing your TSA PreCheck; it can mean the end of your career and your ability to travel internationally. Is that extra-large ginger ale with 10 shots of vodka really worth it??

Money Money Money…It’s So Funny

Not in these cases ABBA. If you think $43,658 is just a scary number on a website, take a look at these real-world “pay up now” issued to passengers who decided to act out at 30,000 feet. These aren’t just fines; they are life-altering financial penalties.

• The “Delta Double” ($77,272): A passenger on a Delta flight from Las Vegas to Atlanta received this bill for attempting to hug and kiss another passenger, walking to the front of the plane to try and exit mid-flight, and biting a fellow traveler multiple times. EEEW…REALLY. SHAME!
• The Record Holder ($81,950): An American Airlines passenger on a flight from Dallas to Charlotte was hit with this massive fine after she pushed a flight attendant, tried to open the cabin door mid-flight, and proceeded to spit, headbutt, and bite crew members. S-H-A-M-E! SHAME! SHAME MISSY!!!
• The Diversion Tax (~$18,600+): Beyond FAA fines, airlines are now suing passengers for the cost of fuel and landing fees when a flight has to be diverted. One recent Ryanair flyer was sued for over $18,000 just to cover the extra jet fuel and legal fees caused by their outburst. OH BEHAVE!

Coming Up…

That’s some start to Part 1. Whew. Lots of factoids. But believe it or not, we’re just scratching the surface of the “Angry Skies.”

In Part 2, we’re going deep into the dynamics and psychology of unruly behavior. From overconsumption of Zima (youngsters, that’s old timey 1990’s alcohol…and it was gooooood) and everything else that get’s you buzzed, to being super bothered by your farting seat-mate or the person who treats the cabin like their personal living room. Also, how shrinking seats and disappearing armrests turn calm travelers into headline-makers.

Behave yourself up there and down here too, people. Thanks for reading and safe travels!

All statistics and enforcement data are sourced directly from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). You can track the latest trends and specific enforcement actions at: FAA.gov/unruly

Disclaimer: The 10MTN RedEye Report is for informational and entertainment purposes only. While we use official FAA data, specific legal penalties and prosecutions vary by case. 10MTN and MDC Plus Travel, LLC are not legal entities; please consult federal aviation law or a legal professional if you find yourself in a yoke-related predicament. Always fly responsibly—and keep your shoes on or at least wear slippers.

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