Woman Charged for Sneaking Onto Flight from NYC to Paris

Svetlana Dali, a permanent US resident, was arraigned in Brooklyn federal court on Thursday after being charged with stowing away on a flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Paris. Dali, who appeared in court limping and in pain, allegedly bypassed security and ticketing checkpoints on November 26th, slipping onto Delta Flight 264 without a ticket.

How did she do it?

The FBI complaint details Dali's methods. Initially turned away for lacking a boarding pass, she cleverly joined a line for airline employees, masking herself amidst a large Air Europa flight crew. Though she underwent full security screening, Delta agents, busy with other passengers, didn't notice her lack of a ticket until after takeoff.

Upon landing in Paris, French authorities denied her entry due to a lack of proper travel documents. After causing a disturbance on her return flight, she was removed and subsequently arrested upon arrival back in New York. Dali admitted to her actions, stating she intentionally evaded security to avoid purchasing a ticket.

Facing Serious Consequences

Dali's attorney argued her actions were comparable to minor offenses like fare evasion. However, she faces up to five years imprisonment and/or a fine if convicted. The judge ordered a temporary detention while a bail package is prepared. Dali's defense also expressed concerns for her safety while in detention.

TSA's Response

TSA administrator Admiral David Pekoske acknowledged that Dali bypassed multiple security layers, yet emphasized that she did undergo full screening. He stressed that such incidents are rare and difficult to achieve, especially during the busy Thanksgiving travel period. Security footage reportedly clearly showed Dali's deliberate attempt to avoid checkpoints.