NJ man arrested after allegedly trying to open plane doors on American Airlines fight

A New Jersey man is facing multiple charges after officials said he engaged in disruptive and life-threatening behavior on an American Airlines plane, including trying to attempt to open the aircraft exterior doors mid-flight.

On July 18, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, Eric Nicholas Gapco, 26, of Delanco, New Jersey — a passenger on American Airlines flight #2101 — assaulted and intimidated a flight attendant and aircraft crew members, forcing the plane to divert. The flight, which originated in Seattle, was on its way to Dallas but diverted to Salt Lake City International Airport due to Gapco’s alleged unruly behavior.

“Gapco failed to follow instructions to remain in his seat, propositioned a flight attendant for sex, was repeatedly loud, vaped, bothered other passengers, locked himself in the lavatory, and attempted to open the aircraft exterior doors multiple times while the aircraft was in flight,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office wrote.

Officials said flight crew members and other passengers had to restain Gapco. They used “flexible restraints” on his feet and hands for the remainder of the flight. When they landed, he was arrested by law enforcement at Salt Lake City International Airport.

Gapco has been charged with interference with a flight crew and attempted damage to an aircraft, officials said.
On July 18, a dramatic incident unfolded on American Airlines flight #2101, resulting in serious charges against a New Jersey man, Eric Nicholas Gapco, aged 26, from Delanco. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, Gapco exhibited highly disruptive and dangerous behavior, leading to a mid-flight diversion and his subsequent arrest.

The flight, which had originated in Seattle and was bound for Dallas, was forced to divert to Salt Lake City International Airport due to Gapco’s actions. The ordeal began when Gapco allegedly refused to follow the flight crew’s instructions to remain seated. His behavior escalated quickly, creating a chaotic environment onboard.

Gapco’s alleged conduct included a range of alarming actions. He propositioned a flight attendant for sex, a move that not only disrespected the crew member but also added to the distress of the situation. Additionally, Gapco was reportedly loud and disruptive throughout the flight, further unsettling other passengers.

One of the most concerning aspects of the incident was Gapco’s repeated attempts to open the aircraft’s exterior doors while it was in flight. This reckless behavior posed a significant threat to the safety of everyone onboard. The mere attempt to open the doors mid-flight is not only a federal crime but also an act that could potentially result in catastrophic consequences, including the loss of cabin pressure.

Gapco’s disruptive actions didn’t stop there. He vaped on the plane, an activity strictly prohibited on all commercial flights due to safety and health regulations. He also bothered other passengers, contributing to the overall tension and unease within the cabin. At one point, Gapco locked himself in the lavatory, refusing to come out when instructed by the flight crew.

Faced with an increasingly volatile situation, the flight crew and passengers took decisive action to restrain Gapco. Using “flexible restraints,” they managed to secure his hands and feet for the remainder of the flight. This collective effort highlights the importance of crew and passenger cooperation in ensuring in-flight safety during emergencies.

Upon the aircraft’s landing at Salt Lake City International Airport, Gapco was promptly arrested by law enforcement officers. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged him with interference with a flight crew and attempted damage to an aircraft, both serious federal offenses that underscore the gravity of his actions.

The charges against Gapco carry significant legal consequences. Interference with a flight crew is a federal crime that can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. This charge is applied in cases where an individual’s behavior threatens the safety and order of a flight, requiring intervention by the flight crew and potentially endangering other passengers.

Attempted damage to an aircraft is another grave charge, reflecting the potential risk posed by Gapco’s attempts to open the exterior doors mid-flight. This act is considered a threat to the structural integrity and safety of the aircraft, with far-reaching implications for the safety of all onboard.

The incident on flight #2101 is a stark reminder of the importance of following flight crew instructions and maintaining proper conduct during air travel. The safety protocols established by airlines are designed to protect passengers and crew members, ensuring that flights operate smoothly and safely. Disruptive behavior not only jeopardizes this safety but also leads to severe legal repercussions for the individuals involved.

Gapco’s actions highlight the critical role of flight attendants and crew members in managing in-flight emergencies. Their training and quick thinking were instrumental in restraining Gapco and preventing further escalation of the situation. The collaboration between crew members and passengers in this incident exemplifies the collective responsibility for maintaining safety during flights.

This incident also underscores the need for stringent measures to address unruly passenger behavior. Airlines and regulatory bodies continuously work to enhance security protocols and ensure that such disruptions are dealt with swiftly and effectively. The legal framework surrounding air travel is designed to deter individuals from engaging in dangerous conduct and to protect the well-being of all passengers and crew.

As the case against Gapco proceeds, it will likely serve as a cautionary tale for others. The legal proceedings will further emphasize the seriousness of his actions and the consequences that come with violating federal aviation laws. This case reinforces the message that any behavior threatening the safety of an aircraft and its occupants will be met with strict legal action.

The incident involving Eric Nicholas Gapco on American Airlines flight #2101 illustrates the severe implications of disruptive and dangerous behavior during air travel. The swift response by the flight crew, passengers, and law enforcement ensured the safety of all onboard and led to Gapco’s arrest and federal charges. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining proper conduct and following flight crew instructions to ensure a safe and secure flying experience for everyone.