WASHINGTON- Etihad Airways (EY) is at the center of a federal criminal case after a passenger allegedly assaulted a flight attendant during a 15-hour service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
The incident occurred mid-flight on EY5 from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) to Washington Dulles (IAD), with the accused now facing up to 20 years in prison under US federal law.
Etihad Passenger Faces Assault Charges
A 40-year-old Australian citizen, identified as Sophiyaa Sahu, was arrested on February 13, 2026, after Etihad Airways flight EY5 landed at Washington Dulles (IAD). The Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to reports of an onboard disturbance during the ultra-long-haul flight from Abu Dhabi (AUH).
According to a federal affidavit filed in a Virginia district court, the incident took place around the midpoint of the 15-hour journey. At the time, cabin crew was conducting meal and beverage service on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating the route.
Court documents state that Sahu began shouting expletives at nearby passengers and flight attendants. A crew member serving passengers in her row reportedly asked her to lower her voice. She allegedly refused.
As the flight attendant attempted to move the meal cart away from her seat due to her agitated behavior, prosecutors allege that Sahu kicked him in the back of the hip with large black boots she was wearing. The crew member continued efforts to de-escalate the situation.
The complaint further alleges that Sahu stood on her seat and shouted obscenities throughout the cabin. When the chief flight attendant intervened, she allegedly shoved the crew member three or four times in the shoulder area.
Cabin crew prepared a restraint kit in case the situation escalated further. However, Sahu reportedly calmed down and remained seated for the rest of the flight. Passengers seated nearby told investigators that the disruption lasted approximately 30 minutes.
Law Enforcement Response and Federal Charges
Pilots requested law enforcement presence prior to landing. Upon arrival at Washington Dulles (IAD), federal authorities took Sahu into custody.
During questioning, Sahu denied assaulting the flight attendants but admitted to making what she described as a public speech to the cabin. She claimed the first crew member had provoked her with inappropriate comments.
She has been formally charged with assault and interference with flight crew members under 49 U.S.C. 46504. Under this statute, interference with flight crew members carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Reported by PYOK, the case highlights the serious legal consequences passengers face for disruptive or violent behavior onboard commercial aircraft operating to the United States.
Legal Implications for Inflight Disruptions
US federal law treats interference with flight crew members as a serious offense because it can compromise aircraft safety. The statute applies to acts that assault, intimidate, or interfere with crew members performing their duties.
Airlines operating international routes to the United States are subject to these federal protections once the aircraft is within US jurisdiction. Arrests are typically carried out upon landing, following coordination between the flight crew and federal authorities.
This case underscores the legal exposure passengers face when onboard conduct escalates into physical confrontation, particularly on long-haul international services.
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