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Reports of sexual assaults during commercial flights are increasing, according to findings highlighted in a CBS News investigation.
The FBI investigated more than 170 alleged in-air passenger-on-passenger assaults in 2024, up from roughly 130 the prior year. While that figure represents a small fraction of the millions who fly annually, advocates and attorneys warn the true scope may be far larger due to underreporting and fragmented tracking systems.
One survivor, described feeling trapped in a middle seat on a flight from Chicago to Florida in September 2023. She said the man seated beside her appeared intoxicated, smelled of alcohol and continued drinking before allegedly assaulting her as the plane prepared to land. Solofra later reported the incident after exiting the aircraft. The accused passenger pleaded guilty to battery. Solofra has since spoken publicly about the emotional toll, including anxiety around travel and the need for counseling and therapy.
Aviation safety advocates note that many alleged assaults occur on long-distance or international routes, often on overnight flights where cabin lighting is dimmed. Alcohol consumption remains a recurring factor cited in numerous cases. Industry observers also point to modern aircraft configurations as a potential contributor. Tighter seating, reduced personal space, and obstructed lines of sight between rows may make it harder for crew members or fellow passengers to detect problematic behavior in real time.
Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants, has argued that changes in cabin layouts and staffing levels may influence both prevention and reporting. Flight attendants are typically the first point of contact when a passenger discloses an incident, yet the path from onboard complaint to formal investigation can vary depending on jurisdiction, airline procedures, and whether local airport police or federal authorities take the lead.
Attorneys representing survivors say inconsistent data collection remains a core challenge. There is currently no universal requirement compelling airlines to publicly disclose how many assault complaints they receive. Because some incidents are handled by local law enforcement agencies that do not release consolidated statistics, national figures may not capture the full picture. Lawyers emphasize that gaps in reporting can obscure patterns that might otherwise guide policy reforms, crew training, and passenger awareness initiatives.
Solofra and other advocates continue urging passengers to report incidents promptly to flight crews and, when appropriate, to law enforcement. They argue that greater transparency and standardized reporting protocols could improve accountability and deterrence. As Solofra stated, silence can allow misconduct to remain hidden, while documentation and reporting create a record that may help protect future travelers.
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