Woman Removed From Flight Accused Of Intoxicated Behavior And Dancing Down Aisle

Authorities in Australia escorted a woman off a plane for alleged drunken behavior. Her antics landed her an appointment in court.

What happened: The Australian Federal Police (AFP) posted about the incident on Facebook and in an extended statement. The incident occurred on a flight from Sydney to Queenstown in July, but the woman was in court on September 3.

• The AFP Facebook post reads, “Maybe no one puts you in a corner, but we will take you off a plane.” Authorities removed a 50-year-old woman for “alleged intoxicated behavior.” Her stunts included ignoring cabin crew instructions. She also reportedly danced down the aisle as the plane was taxiing for takeoff.
• The pilot ultimately decided to abort takeoff and returned to the departure gate. They notified police officers, who asked the woman to leave the plane. She reportedly became argumentative, so they escorted her off the plane in cuffs.

The AFP issued a warning: The news release on Facebook warned passengers to mind their drinking. “Travelers are reminded if you misbehave under the influence of alcohol, you’ll be removed from your flight. You’re not just spoiling your trip, but also potentially ruining the travel plans of hundreds of other people, and risking a criminal conviction. “So please, save your dance moves for another time!” they joked.

Authorities Gave The Woman A Court Attendance Notice

Police reveal charges and penalties: The extended AFP news release explains that the woman was given a court attendance notice for two offenses.

• “Passenger not comply with cabin crew’s safety instruction,” which carries a maximum fine of $16,500 AUD.
• “Obstruct/hinder/intimidate/resist Commonwealth official,” which carries a prison sentence of up to two years.
• “The alleged behavior of this woman risked the safety of herself, passengers, and crew, and in this case caused a delayed takeoff, which inconveniences everyone on board,” AFP Detective Acting Inspector Trevor Robinson said.

Another Airport Incident: A woman caused a scene at Orlando International Airport after she punched multiple computer screens at a help desk. A bystander recorded the irate woman screaming at staff before hitting one of them.

• It remains unclear why the woman was upset, but the witness who filmed the incident alleged she did not make the standby list for several flights.
• Authorities later arrested Selomit Velez-Rodriguez for battery, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest.