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Man tried to get flight attendants to join ‘mile high club’ on Spirit flight to Orlando, agents say

Man also accused of grabbing a flight attendant, asking disturbing questions about the cockpit

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 01: A Spirit Airlines plane takes off at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on June 1, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Over 40 percent of Spirit Airlines flights around the country were delayed today following a technical issue with its app, website and airport kiosks. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) (Mario Tama, 2023 Getty Images)

ORLANDO, Fla. – A man on a flight from Louisville to Orlando was arrested after agents say he was disruptive on the flight, grabbing one flight attendant and asking her and another attendant if they wanted to join the “mile high club.”

A criminal complaint filed in federal court says James Finnister was on Spirit Airlines Flight 693 from Louisville, Kentucky to Orlando International Airport Tuesday.

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The complaint said Finnister asked the lead flight attendant if she wanted to join the “mile high club.” Finnister reportedly then grabbed a second female flight attendant, pulled her into his seat and asked her the same question.

In addition to that, Finnister also asked multiple questions about the plane’s cockpit, including questions relating to entering it, flight attendants said.

When the plane landed, Orlando police officers spoke to Finnister, who admitted to his actions, according to the complaint. He also told police he had taken several shots of alcohol before the flight to calm his nerves because he’d never flown before.

Finnister is facing federal charges of interfering with the performance of the duties of a flight crew member.

During his appearance in federal court Wednesday, a judge allowed him out of custody, provided he show up for future court dates.

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