FBI Investigates Air Brawl on Breeze Airways Flight

An altercation onboard a Breeze Airways flight has drawn the attention of the FBI following a morning incident on Wednesday. The flight, designated MX704, was traveling from Norfolk International Airport in Virginia to Los Angeles International Airport in California when it made an unscheduled stop at Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado after passengers had already boarded.

According to officials from the Grand Junction Police Station, a male passenger, reportedly intoxicated, became disruptive, hurling racial slurs at airline staff and shaking a skateboard. Airline personnel detained the individual twice, yet he managed to elude custody both times, per police reports.

The airline indicated that one flight attendant and a passenger received evaluations for minor injuries; however, law enforcement stated that no injuries were recorded on their end.

Upon landing in Grand Junction, passengers were taken into custody, with the FBI coordinating the investigation at the Mesa County Detention Facility. A statement from the police department noted, “This is an ongoing investigation, and further details will be released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”

Breeze Airways, a low-cost airline that began operations in May 2021, was founded by David Neeleman, who also established JetBlue. The airline offers direct flights to around 70 destinations, including smaller airports that often require layovers.

The airline added in a statement that its priority is to support the crew and other passengers affected by the incident and to ensure they reach their destination safely and promptly.

Breeze operates four fare options reflecting their commitment to customer service, with some flights starting at under $40 a ticket. Meanwhile, the FBI’s Denver office has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the investigation.