Assaulting a crewmember is punishable by up to 20 years' imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000. If a dangerous weapon is used, the defendant can be imprisoned for life. (18 U.S.C. § 3571, 49 U.S.C.

Physically fighting or interfering with a flight attendant is a serious federal crime with life-altering consequences. Under U.S. law (49 U.S.C. § 46504) and similar international statutes in 2026, interfering with a crew member's duties can lead to up to 20 years in prison and criminal fines of up to $250,000. Beyond criminal prosecution, the FAA can levy civil penalties of up to $37,000 per violation. Passengers who engage in such behavior are typically restrained (sometimes with "flex-cuffs"), the flight may be diverted to the nearest airport for an emergency landing (with the passenger potentially billed for the diversion costs), and they are almost universally placed on the airline’s internal "No Fly List" permanently. In 2026, airlines maintain a "zero-tolerance" policy; even if you aren't criminally charged, you may find yourself banned from multiple carriers and facing a lifetime of travel restrictions, as security data is often shared between alliance partners to protect crew and passenger safety.