Assault Charges Dropped Against Passenger in Bangor

Federal prosecutors dismissed charges against a woman who caused a flight diversion to Maine.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Air Travel

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a simplified airport terminal facade, evoking the institutional gravity of a legal proceeding. — Federal prosecutors dismissed assault charges against Kristina Kedysheva, who was arrested after an in-flight disturbance diverted a flight to Bangor. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Federal authorities have dropped assault charges against Kristina Kedysheva, who was arrested after a flight to Newark was diverted to Bangor International Airport. The incident occurred following an in-flight disturbance involving a flight attendant.

Why it matters

The United States Attorney's Office for Maine cited that further prosecution was not in the interests of justice. This decision concludes the legal proceedings involving the passenger after she was transferred to immigration custody.

The flight involved a total of 274 passengers and 13 crew members traveling from Milan. The suspect consumed three glasses of wine prior to the incident.

The players

Kristina Kedysheva

She is the passenger who was arrested for an in-flight assault after a flight from Milan to Newark was diverted to Bangor.

United States Attorney's Office for Maine

This federal agency is responsible for the prosecution of federal crimes within the state of Maine.

The details

Kristina Kedysheva was arrested on Sept. 8 after she allegedly bit and kicked a flight attendant during a flight. Passengers and crew members worked together to restrain her until the aircraft reached Bangor.

Sept. 8, 2026: Kedysheva was arrested following a flight diversion.
Oct. 1, 2026: Kedysheva was released from jail and transferred to immigration.
Oct. 8, 2026: Federal prosecutors dismissed charges against Kedysheva.

Travel Outlook

This incident fits into the broader trend of increased scrutiny and legal consequences for disruptive behavior on international flights. While charges were dismissed here, it underscores the logistical impact of diversions on scheduled airline operations.

Travelers should be aware that disruptive behavior on aircraft can lead to immediate flight diversions and significant delays for all passengers on board. Security personnel and crew remain authorized to restrain passengers who pose safety risks during transit.

The takeaway

Maintaining decorum on international flights is essential to ensure aircraft remain on their original flight paths. Disruptive passengers risk not only their own legal standing but also the travel schedules of hundreds of other passengers.