By Michael L. Dworkin

Although the first powered flight did not occur until 1903, the history of aviation- related crimes dates back to 1784—specifically, to a sword-wielding balloon passenger in France. In that incident Jean-Pierre Blanchard, an early pioneer in aviation, drew a sword and threatened pilot Pierre Janseen, demanding control of the balloon. The balloon landed safety and Blanchard took control without further conflict. Mr. Blanchard was not charged with any crime and went on to have a successful career in aviation.1 Just imagine what would happen today if Mr. Blanchard were to find himself on a low cost carrier and in a middle seat and attempted to take control of the aircraft (with or without a sword)! And it doesn’t take that much imagination. Here is a press release form the US Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General, issued March 14, 2024:

“Cincinnati Individual Sentenced for Brandishing a Weapon on a Frontier Airlines Flight”

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