Arrested: Threw cushions and blankets at each other on flight
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Feb 28
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 14
The incident involved the throwing of cushions and blankets. The behavior could have endangered the safety and discipline of the flight
On 5th February 2025, two female passengers, one from Hong Kong and the other from mainland China, were arraigned in court following an altercation on a Cathay Pacific flight traveling from Sapporo, Japan to Hong Kong. The incident, which involved the throwing of cushions and blankets, took place on 6th January 2025, aboard flight CX581.
Had to pay USD 25,600 bail
At the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts, the prosecution requested an adjournment of the case until 12th March, to seek further legal advice from the Department of Justice. One of the defendants, 32-year-old saleswoman Tsui Tsz-kiu, was granted continued bail at the original amount of HK$3,000 (approximately USD 385). However, the second defendant, 60-year-old housewife Cheung San Yin, had her bail raised significantly to HK$200,000 (approximately USD 25,600) after being permitted to return to mainland China.
The charges stem from the mid-air disturbance, where Tsui allegedly threw a blanket and cushion at Cheung, disrupting the flight’s peace and order. In retaliation, Cheung is also accused of throwing similar objects back at Tsui. This disorderly behavior could have endangered the safety and discipline of the flight, raising concerns about in-flight conduct and its legal ramifications.
Recent in-flight disruptions
In recent years, several incidents have occurred where passengers have been arrested for disruptive behavior, including throwing objects like cushions and blankets.
Cathay Pacific Flight CX581 (January 6, 2025): During a flight from Sapporo to Hong Kong, two female passengers got into an argument and began throwing a blanket and cushion at each other. Upon landing, both were arrested and charged with disruptive behavior. They were later granted bail.
Fiji Airways Flight (January 20, 2025): A 69-year-old Australian woman caused a major disturbance on a flight from San Francisco to Nadi. She was reportedly intoxicated, made racist and vulgar comments, and threatened flight attendants. Her behavior included shouting abuse, slapping attendants' hands, and throwing objects. The crew restrained her, and upon landing, she was arrested and fined.
American Airlines Flight 2494 (March 2, 2025): A couple at Miami International Airport attempted to force their way onto a flight to Cancún after arriving late. During the altercation, one individual allegedly threw coffee at an airline employee. Both were arrested and charged with battery and trespassing.
These incidents highlight the growing issue of unruly passenger behavior on flights, leading to legal consequences and flight disruptions. Airlines continue to enforce strict policies to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers and crew members.
