PHILADELPHIA—The holiday travel season is fast approaching and with millions of people traveling by air, the FBI Philadelphia Field Office advises travelers to remain vigilant and exercise caution in airports or traveling aboard aircraft.

The FBI remains committed to prioritizing investigations into federal crimes occurring on aircraft that endanger the safety of passengers, the flight crews, and flight attendants.

“As you travel this holiday season, whether on a flight or at the airport, stay alert to those who may try to disrupt the holiday spirit,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of FBI Philadelphia. “If you are a victim of a crime or witness one, we urge you to report it immediately to your flight crew, airport police, or the FBI. Your vigilance can help keep the holiday season safe for everyone.” Some of the most common crimes the FBI investigates during a flight are:

• Sexual misconduct, including sexual assault; indecent exposure, lewd, indecent, sexual, or obscene acts; and indecent or sexual proposal to a minor.
• Assault, including striking or hitting, throwing an object, grabbing or unwanted touching, and spitting.
• Interference with flight crew members, including assault, threats, or intimidation and/or an attempt or conspiracy to do the same.
• Theft

The FBI also investigates airport-based violations. This includes violence against persons and property at international airports if the victim or offender is a United States national or if the offender is located within the U.S., as well as interfering with airport security screening personnel ahead of a flight, including airport employees or airline employees working at the gate.

The FBI also investigates bomb threats whether they are made on the ground or in-flight.

FBI Airport Liaison Agents (ALAs) are assigned to nearly 450 U.S. aviation facilities across the country that have passenger screening operations regulated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). These agents respond to crime aboard aircraft, a violation that falls within the FBI’s special investigation jurisdiction.

Everyone should be aware of their surroundings while onboard an airplane. If you have been the victim of one of these crimes or if you have witnessed one take place, report it to your flight crew, airport authority police, and the FBI.

Tips can be reported to 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or tips.fbi.gov.