A woman is currently dealing with significant legal expenses due to an incident that took place during a flight from Dallas to Charlotte in 2021. Heather Wells, 34, is facing a lawsuit from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for failing to pay a fine of $81,950 designated to her by American Airlines, per the NY Post. 

This fine was a result of Wells’ disruptive and violent behavior during the flight. The incident occurred in July 2021, when Wells, who is originally from San Antonio, was served a neat Jack Daniels drink during the beverage service about an hour into the flight. As the flight progressed, Wells’, who typically flies business class, became agitated and attempted to open the main cabin door. 

She also threatened a flight attendant, forcefully pushing him aside, and persisting towards the front of the aircraft. Two flight attendants and a fellow passenger had to restrain Wells using duct tape and flex cuffs to ensure the safety of everyone on board, reports note. Even while seated, she kicked, spit, and even attempted to bite and head-butt both the crew and fellow passengers. The situation escalated when she managed to break free from her restraints, unleashing more kicks towards crew members and passengers as they were in the process of taxiing to the gate. 

The authorities were called to de-escalate the situation. Wells was sedated before being escorted off the aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has accused Wells of violating federal aviation regulations by attempting to gain unauthorized access to the flight cabin, interfering with the flight crew, making threats, and posing a clear and present danger to the safety of both the aircraft and its occupants. This is the highest penalty ever given by the FAA.

#Clique, what are your thoughts?