Man Charged with Attempting to Breach Cockpit, Assault on Flight from Newark

Belgian National Charged with Multiple Offenses on Flight from Newark to Zurich; Charges include assault and interference with flight crew, following a disrupted flight in March 2024.

NEWARK, NJ — Jan Daeninck, a 43-year-old Belgian national, faces serious charges after allegedly attempting to breach the cockpit and assaulting flight crew members on a Swiss International Airlines flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Zurich. The incident, which forced the flight to return to Newark, occurred on March 31, 2024, and has led to Daeninck's arrest as announced by U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger.

Daeninck is charged with one count each of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault and intimidation, assault, and abusive sexual contact on an airplane. He was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond after appearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court.

Details of the Incident

According to court documents, the disruption began shortly after takeoff when Daeninck approached a female flight attendant, assaulted her, and then made an aggressive attempt to enter the cockpit. He physically assaulted a male flight attendant who intervened during the altercation at the cockpit door. Daeninck was eventually restrained by crew members and remained so for the duration of the flight.

Legal Consequences and Charges

The charges laid against Daeninck carry severe penalties if he is found guilty:

• Interference with flight crew members and attendants: Up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
• Assault by beating or striking: Up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
• Abusive sexual contact: Up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger acknowledged the efforts of the FBI, led by Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado, and the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Edward T. Cetnar, for their roles in the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman of the Office’s General Crimes Unit is representing the government in this case.

As the judicial process moves forward, it is important to remember that the charges against Daeninck are merely accusations. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The case highlights the seriousness with which authorities treat incidents endangering the safety and security of airline passengers and crew.