A stowaway managed to board a Delta Air Lines flight from New York to Paris without a boarding pass or identification, bypassing multiple security checkpoints at John F. Kennedy International Airport.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, raised significant concerns regarding airport security procedures.
Delta Flight 264, departing from JFK and arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, had a full passenger load when an unexpected announcement was made by the pilot during the flight. The pilot informed passengers that an extra individual had been found on board, prompting authorities to respond upon landing.
Federal officials confirmed that the person in question successfully completed security screening without triggering any alarms. However, they were able to avoid two separate identity and boarding pass verification stations. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirmed that the individual passed through the necessary screening checkpoints without carrying prohibited items, but did not verify her identity at the required stations.
The stowaway, described as a woman, was reportedly moving between the aircraft’s lavatories during the flight, which lasted over seven hours. The flight attendants became suspicious of her movements and eventually discovered her presence as the plane was descending into Paris. A passenger aboard the flight, Rob Jackson, documented the situation on social media, explaining how authorities were waiting to meet the plane upon arrival.
As the plane landed, passengers were instructed to remain seated while the French border police boarded to investigate. The authorities took the individual off the plane, though no further details were provided regarding the woman’s identity or her motives. It was also unclear how the stowaway managed to bypass security.
The incident has prompted an investigation by Delta Airlines, with the airline working in cooperation with law enforcement and aviation authorities. A Delta spokesperson emphasized the importance of safety and security and assured that the airline is conducting a thorough review of the event. The airline has yet to disclose further specifics on the investigation.
The TSA also stated that it is reviewing its security processes to understand how the stowaway was able to evade the standard checks. This case comes at a time when US airports are seeing increased traffic due to the busy Thanksgiving travel period, with an estimated 18.3 million travelers expected to pass through security checkpoints.
The TSA confirmed that no prohibited items were found on the stowaway. Authorities continue to investigate the situation.
With input from the New York Times and New York Post.
