Full Breakdown
Oregon Woman Sues American Airlines Over Alleged In-Flight Sexual Assault
12/13/2025, 3:03:42 AM
Incident Overview
An Oregon woman has filed a negligence lawsuit against American Airlines and SkyWest, alleging that they allowed an intoxicated passenger to board a flight from Missouri to Portland, where he subsequently sexually assaulted her. The incident occurred on December 10, 2024, during a delayed flight, as the woman was returning home from a business trip.
Details of the Allegation
According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff observed the accused, Justin Eldon Knotts, 40, consuming multiple beers and shots at an airport bar before boarding the flight. Despite his apparent intoxication and the strong smell of alcohol, airline staff permitted him to board and sit next to the woman. Once the flight took off, Knotts allegedly began to invade her personal space, making inappropriate comments and ultimately groping her. The woman attempted to alert a flight attendant, stating, “This man is completely on top of me, and I need to move now!” However, she was initially told she could not move during takeoff. Eventually, the flight attendant intervened and relocated her to another seat.
Response from Authorities
Upon landing at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, police were waiting to apprehend Knotts, who was reported to have been visibly intoxicated. A flight attendant corroborated the woman's account, stating that she witnessed Knotts groping the plaintiff and had also experienced inappropriate touching herself while serving beverages. Dallas police indicated they were seeking a warrant for Knotts' arrest on misdemeanor assault charges, although no charges had been filed as of the latest reports.
Impact on the Plaintiff
As a result of the incident, the plaintiff missed her connecting flight to Portland and had to spend the night in Dallas. She was able to return home the following day. Her attorney, Mark Lindquist, emphasized that the lawsuit aims to hold the airline accountable and promote improved safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Official Statements
American Airlines released a statement asserting that the safety of their customers and team members is their highest priority and that they are reviewing the complaint. The airline has not yet provided further details regarding the incident or its response to the lawsuit.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the airline's practices have pointed to this incident as indicative of broader issues regarding passenger safety and the handling of intoxicated individuals on flights. The plaintiff's legal team has expressed concerns that without accountability, such incidents may continue to occur, putting other passengers at risk.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the lawsuit details the alleged assault and the intoxication of Knotts, there is currently no public record of formal charges against him, despite police reports indicating that a warrant was sought. Additionally, Knotts has a criminal history, including past convictions for domestic assault and driving under the influence, which raises questions about the airline's vetting processes for passengers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The safety of our customers and team members is our highest priority. We are reviewing the complaint.” — American Airlines spokesperson
- “With this lawsuit, our client hopes for accountability and improved safety measures on planes,” — Mark Lindquist, Attorney for the plaintiff
