Man Charged with Threatening Flight Crew and Passengers in Mid-Flight Incident

Defendant allegedly banged on cockpit door, threatened disabled minor, taunted Jewish passengers, and confronted the aircraft’s captain.

A 27-year-old resident of Passaic County, New Jersey, faces a federal charge of interference with flight crew members and attendants after allegedly threatening and intimidating passengers, flight attendants, and the cockpit crew on a flight from Miami to Newark. Luis A. Vaquero was arrested upon landing at Newark Liberty International Airport and subsequently appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stacey D. Adams, where he was released pending further proceedings.

Alleged Mid-Flight Threats and Confrontation

According to the criminal complaint and statements made in federal court:

Early in the Flight: On February 9, 2025, soon after the aircraft took off from Miami, Florida, Vaquero allegedly directed verbal threats toward fellow passengers, including making ominous remarks to a disabled minor and harassing a group of Jewish travelers. Flight attendants observed him yelling and being disruptive in the cabin.

“The defendant is charged with threatening flight crew members and passengers while traveling to Newark. We are committed to keeping the skies safe for flying and will prosecute those who criminally interfere with the professionals responsible for ensuring passenger safety,” said Acting United States Attorney Vikas Khanna.

Threats Toward Crew: Vaquero reportedly demanded alcohol after the in-flight beverage service had ended. When a flight attendant declined to serve additional drinks, Vaquero warned her, “You better watch out, shit’s gonna happen to you.” Alarmed by his behavior, crew members decided to radio ahead for law enforcement to meet the plane upon arrival in Newark.

Attempt to Confront the Captain: Once the aircraft landed and the cabin crew announced that law enforcement was on its way, Vaquero allegedly forced his way to the front of the plane and began pounding on the locked cockpit door, shouting: “I need the pilot to come outside!”

A flight attendant tried to calm Vaquero or persuade him to return to his seat. In response, Vaquero threatened: “I will really break your fuckin’ jaw n***a!”

He also demanded, “I wanna see that fuckin’ captain! Come outside you bitch ass n***a!”

Moments later, the flight’s captain emerged from the cockpit, only to be met by Vaquero’s continuing verbal onslaught at a distance of approximately six inches. Law enforcement, who had boarded the plane, intervened before the situation escalated further.

“Over the course of a 3-hour flight, we allege Vaquero lost his temper and physically harassed not only the crew and captain, but passengers, making threats of physical violence toward a disabled minor and mocking a group of Jewish passenger.” Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly said. “It all culminated in a terrifying attack and attempted breach of the flight deck when witnesses say he banged on the cockpit door and confronted the pilot. The harrowing flight and other similar incidents onboard airplanes recently are creating tension and fear for fliers and crew members.”

Federal Charge and Potential Penalties

Vaquero is charged with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault or intimidation. This offense carries aA maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of up to $250,000.

Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna credited the FBI—under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly in Newark—and the Port Authority Police Department, led by Superintendent of Police Edward T. Cetnar, for their swift response and investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Bank Integrity, Money Laundering & Recovery Unit in Newark is prosecuting the case.

As with all criminal complaints, the charges described herein are merely accusations. Luis A. Vaquero is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.