Passenger Attacks Flight Attendants, Forces Flight to Turn Back in Georgia

SAVANNAH, Ga. — An American Airlines flight bound for Miami had to return to Savannah on Monday evening after 31-year-old Delange Augustin allegedly attacked two flight attendants shortly after takeoff. The incident, which unfolded aboard American Eagle flight 4162 operated by Envoy Air, has drawn significant attention after witnesses reported Augustin’s erratic behavior during the flight.

The flight, which had eight passengers and five crew members on board, departed from Savannah and took off around 7:30 p.m. When flight attendants approached Augustin, they initially believed he was experiencing a medical emergency due to what appeared as stomping, incoherent yelling, and shaking. However, the situation escalated quickly when Augustin allegedly kicked a flight attendant in the chest, sending her across the aisle and crashing into a window.

This alarming incident prompted the pilots to return to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Upon landing, conditions aboard the aircraft had worsened. Augustin was said to be punching and kicking the seat in front of him, collapsing it when the passenger vacated the seat.

As the plane taxied to the gate, Augustin allegedly rushed to the front of the plane, where he allegedly attacked another flight attendant with punches. Three intervening passengers helped subdue him until airport police arrived. Augustin, who reportedly swallowed rosary beads during the flight, was subsequently transported to a local hospital for evaluation, then booked into the Chatham County Detention Center on charges including battery and interference with a flight crew.

Augustin’s sister, Medjina Augustin, traveling with him, justified his violent behavior by claiming they were trying to flee from supposed “religious attacks of a spiritual nature.” She reported that her brother told her to pray as they were followed by “Satan’s disciples.” Medjina suggested her brother had swallowed the rosary beads to gain strength in what she described as “spiritual warfare.”

“Safety and security are our top priorities,” American Airlines stated in a company release regarding the incident. “We appreciate the professionalism of the entire crew and thank our passengers for their understanding.”

The bizarre episode is reflective of a growing trend of disruptive incidents occurring on flights. FBI Agent Savannah Solomon indicated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the repercussions for Augustin could involve significant federal charges. Further assessments regarding his mental health are pending.