AirTran Airways Flight Diverted

Earlier today, AirTran Airways flight #39 traveling from Atlanta to San Francisco was diverted to the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport due to a reportedly disruptive and intoxicated passenger. This passenger was identified as Muhammad Abu Tahir, 46 years of age, of Virginia. Tahir was transported to the El Paso County jail, where he will be detained on a federal hold over the weekend. Federal charges for interference with a flight crew are expected to be filed on Monday, January, 11, 2010, in the District of Colorado, Denver.

At this time, the investigation has revealed there were no injuries reported as a result of this incident.

If convicted of interference with a flight crew, the defendant faces not more than 20 years in federal prison, and up to a $250,000 fine.

The charges are only allegations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Any questions pertaining to the charges or subsequent prosecution should be directed to the District of Colorado, United States Attorney’s Office, at (303) 454-0243.