An American Airlines flight from Savannah to Miami descended into chaos on March 10 when Delange Augustin, a 31-year-old passenger, allegedly swallowed rosary beads and launched a violent outburst that left flight attendants and fellow passengers in fear. The incident was marked by delusions that he was being pursued by demonic spirits, prompting an emergency return to Savannah shortly after takeoff.
According to an affidavit filed by an FBI agent, Delange and his sister, Medjina Augustin, were en route to Haiti, believing they were fleeing from spiritual attacks. Eyewitnesses reported that just less than a minute after departure, Delange became agitated, yelling, shaking, and stomping his feet. Medjina conveyed that her brother viewed the rosary beads as a form of spiritual protection, describing them as “a weapon of strength in spiritual warfare.”
Initial reactions from some crew members led them to suspect he was suffering a medical episode or seizure. However, as the situation escalated, it became clear that Delange's erratic behavior was intentional. He kicked a flight attendant in the chest, causing the attendant to crash into the aircraft’s wall, according to PEOPLE. When he kicked the seat in front of him until it broke, pilots decided to turn the flight around.
Returning to Savannah, the chaotic scene continued as Delange reportedly stormed toward the front of the airplane, pulling his sister along and physically assaulting another flight attendant by punching them. Passengers attempted to restrain him as fear surged through the cabin; one witness shared that among the crew, there was “fear, terror, shock and physical pain.” They screamed for help as Delange shouted for passengers to get the police.
According to reports from PEOPLE, the onboard crew began to think Delange’s conduct was purposeful rather than a medical issue. He was subsequently hospitalized for swallowing the rosary beads and later transported to Chatham County Detention Center. Charges filed include battery, willful obstruction of law enforcement, and criminal damage to property. He also faces federal charges for interfering with flight crew members and their duties.
Medjina Augustin, in interviews following the incident, described her brother's surreal actions as she further elaborated on their beliefs of fleeing from dark, spiritual forces. She recalled him urging her to close her eyes and pray, claiming that “Satan’s disciples” had infiltrated the aircraft to prevent them from reaching Haiti. “I never experienced as much darkness as was on the plane that evening,” she said.
American Airlines, in a statement, emphasized that safety and security are their top priorities, adding, “We appreciate the professionalism of the entire crew and thank our passengers for their understanding.” The statement indicated that the flight, known as American Eagle flight 4162, operated by Envoy, had to return to Savannah soon after takeoff due to the disruptive behavior of a passenger.
This shocking event has understandably raised questions about mental health on flights and the considerations airlines might need to make for ensuring passenger and crew safety. Passengers are encouraged to report any concerning behavior promptly, recognizing their role in maintaining a secure flying environment.
Overall, the incident serves as a distressing reminder of potential turmoil during air travel and the unforeseen circumstances that can arise. As more details continue to emerge, many in the industry and passengers alike are reflecting on the circumstances that led to such a frightening episode of airborne chaos.
It's clear that incidents aboard planes can escalate quickly, underscoring the need for vigilance among airline staff and passengers alike. The aviation community is now examining this incident to prevent future occurrences of such violence and anxiety in the skies.
