On November 26, 2024, an unprecedented stowaway incident unfolded on Delta Air Lines flight DL264 from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). A woman managed to board the plane without a ticket by cleverly moving between the aircraft's lavatories throughout the flight, evading detection until just before landing. The stowaway, whose identity has not been disclosed, apparently bypassed two TSA identity verification checkpoints, a significant security lapse.
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She was only discovered when flight attendants became suspicious of her frequent and prolonged visits to different restrooms on the aircraft. The aircraft, a Boeing 767-400ER (Reg. N845MH), was completely sold out, meaning every seat was occupied, leaving no place for her to sit. Upon noticing her unusual behavior, the crew alerted the pilots, who then informed air traffic control in Paris. The flight landed as scheduled, but passengers were instructed to remain seated until French police boarded the aircraft to apprehend the stowaway. The incident led to a brief delay as law enforcement handled the situation, ensuring the safety of all on board.
Delta Air Lines confirmed the breach and stated that they are investigating how such an incident could occur. The airline emphasized the seriousness with which they treat security matters, particularly unauthorized access to aircraft. The TSA also acknowledged the oversight, stating that the stowaway had gone through security screening without any prohibited items but managed to bypass boarding pass checks. This event raises significant questions about airport and airline security protocols, particularly concerning how individuals can circumvent identity checks and board planes without tickets.
It's a rare occurrence but not unprecedented; stowaways have occasionally managed to evade detection on flights. However, the method used here, hiding in lavatories, adds a unique layer to the discussion on security measures and passenger screening. The woman was taken into custody by French authorities for further questioning and legal proceedings. This incident not only underscores the need for robust security measures but also highlights the human ingenuity involved in attempting to travel without proper authorization. It serves as a reminder of the continuous need for vigilance in aviation security.