Two-Count Indictment Charges Texas Man with Attempting to Open Aircraft Door While in Flight

MEMPHIS, TN—Randolph B. Robinson, 63, of Austin, Texas, was indicted today on two counts related to his actions on board an AirTran flight between Baltimore, Maryland and Austin, announced U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton, III.

Robinson is charged with knowingly and willfully attempting to damage, destroy, disable, and wreck an aircraft, specifically, AirTran Airways Flight 265, by attempting to open exits while the aircraft was in flight.

Robinson is also charged with knowingly interfering with the duties of the flight crew by attempting to open the rear exit doors of the aircraft while in flight. The indictment alleges that his actions caused the flight attendants to be forced to physically remove him from the doors and that the flight crew was forced to divert the aircraft to Memphis.

If convicted, Robinson faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and supervised release of up to five years for each count. This case was investigated by the Joint Terrorism Task Force, which is led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and composed of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Frederick Godwin is representing the government.

The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.