Air travel is often viewed as one of the safest ways to get from point A to point B. But a recent investigation by CBS News (which you can view by clicking here) highlighted a troubling trend: reports of sexual assaults on airplanes are increasing, and many experts believe the problem is significantly underreported.
For passengers, the findings raise serious concerns about safety during air travel and whether airlines are doing enough to protect those who trust them with their well-being.
A Disturbing Incident at 30,000 Feet
The CBS News investigation recounts the experience of Renee Solofra, who was seated in a middle seat on a September 2023 flight from Chicago to Florida. She described the man seated beside her as visibly intoxicated and continuing to drink during the flight. According to Solofra, he grabbed her neck and hand, took her cellphone, and, shortly before landing, grabbed her breast.
After the plane landed, Solofra reported the assault and later pressed charges. The man, Daniel McAdams, pleaded guilty to battery.
The emotional aftermath was significant. Solofra has spoken about the fear she experienced, the impact on her job, and the counseling she sought following the assault. What was meant to be routine travel became a life-altering event. And her story is not an isolated incident.
FBI Data Shows an Increase in Airline Sexual Assault Cases
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated more than 170 passenger-on-passenger sexual assault cases on flights in 2024. That figure is up from approximately 130 the year before.
While these numbers represent a small fraction of the millions of people who fly each year, the upward trend is alarming. Even more concerning is the likelihood that these figures do not capture the full scope of the problem.
Some incidents are handled by local airport police departments that do not publicly report their data. Others may never be formally reported at all. According to advocates and attorneys interviewed in the investigation, there is no centralized system requiring airlines to report complaints of in-flight sexual assault to federal authorities. In other words, the true number of victims may be far higher.
Why Are Airline Sexual Assaults Increasing?
Experts point to several factors that may be contributing to the rise in sexual assaults that occur on airplanes, either harming passengers or airline workers.
Many incidents occur on long-distance or international flights, frequently at night, and often involve alcohol consumption. Alcohol impairment can increase aggressive behavior and reduce inhibitions.
Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants, noted that changes in airline operations may also play a role. Aircraft cabins are more crowded, seats are closer together, and sightlines between rows are limited. At the same time, staffing levels and cabin configurations can make it more difficult for flight attendants to monitor passenger behavior effectively.
If a report is dismissed at any point in the chain of communication, from the cabin crew to ground personnel, accountability may suffer, and sexual assailants could feel empowered.
Gaps in Reporting & Accountability
One of the most significant concerns raised in the investigation is the lack of consistent reporting requirements.
The FBI’s numbers reflect only cases reported directly to federal authorities. However, airlines often receive complaints directly from passengers. Without a mandatory reporting system, those complaints may not be shared with law enforcement or the public. That gap in transparency makes it difficult to assess the true scope of the issue or to implement effective reforms.
Some victims are now pursuing civil lawsuits against airlines, alleging that carriers failed to take adequate steps to prevent foreseeable harm. In the Solofra case, she filed suit against American Airlines.
Airlines maintain that passenger safety is a top priority and state that they take reports seriously. However, victims and advocates argue that more proactive measures are needed, including better alcohol monitoring, clearer reporting protocols, and improved transparency.
Do You Need to File an Airline Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
When you purchase a plane ticket, you are not just paying for transportation. You are entering into a relationship with a common carrier, which is a company that owes you a heightened duty of care under the law.
Airlines are responsible for maintaining a reasonably safe environment for passengers. That includes taking appropriate steps to prevent foreseeable misconduct, responding promptly to reports of assault, and ensuring that intoxicated or disruptive individuals do not pose a risk to others.
If you were sexually assaulted on an airplane, you may have legal options beyond criminal charges against the perpetrator.
Depending on the circumstances, there may be grounds to pursue a civil claim against the airline if it failed to:
- Properly monitor alcohol service
- Respond appropriately to complaints or warning signs
- Provide adequate supervision in the cabin
- Enforce policies designed to protect passenger safety
At Matthews & Associates, we represent injury victims nationwide, including people who were sexually assaulted. We have handled thousands of cases and secured major wins for clients across the country. If an airline’s failure to protect you contributed to your harm, we want to hear from you to see if you have the grounds to file a claim against the airline and any other company that was responsible for your safety.
Dial (888) 923-7001 now to speak with an attorney from Matthews & Associates about your potential airline sexual assault claim. Initial consultations are always free and confidential.
