EasyJet Passenger Jailed Six Years for Sexual Assault on Naples to Edinburgh Flight.

An EasyJet passenger jailed for attempted rape on a flight to the UK has received a six-year prison sentence. Nicola Cristiano, 45, was convicted following a trial in Scotland. The verdict underscores the serious consequences for unruly passenger prosecution in international air travel.

Incident Details and Conviction

Cristiano committed the offense on a late-night Naples to Edinburgh flight on May 13, 2025. The Italian national deliberately changed seats to sit next to the woman. He repeatedly seized the victim's hand and neck. He attempted to force her to touch his exposed groin. Evidence of his semen was later found on the victim’s cheek and lips. After the assault, the woman immediately reported the incident to the cabin crew. Police arrested Cristiano upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport.

He was convicted of attempted rape at the High Court in Edinburgh verdict last month. Defense solicitor Jim Stephenson acknowledged the victim said “no” repeatedly. However, Cristiano still maintained innocence on the most serious charge parts. Detective Chief Inspector Steph Garnett noted Cristiano “deliberately approached a woman traveling alone.”

Sentencing and Victim Impact

Judge Alison Stirling passed the six-year sentence on Friday. The judge directly addressed the lasting trauma caused by the assault. The victim stated the assault severely impacted her sense of safety. She no longer feels comfortable flying or traveling alone. This incident, happening in a public setting, was especially damaging. Judge Stirling stated custody was the only appropriate sentence. The reasons included punishment and public protection. The court was also told Cristiano will face deportation after prison term to Italy. He will remain subject to notification requirements indefinitely.

Broader Aviation Security and Safety Context

This severe sentence sends a strong message to the aviation industry. In-flight sexual assault on flight incidents are a growing global concern. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated 104 such cases in 2024. Reports of in-flight sexual assaults have shown a "disturbing uptick" in recent years. This trend highlights the need for stronger airline passenger safety protocols.

Incidents often involve a male offender and a female victim traveling alone. The close proximity of passengers creates a unique risk environment. The prompt action by the cabin crew and police is vital for effective prosecution.

International bodies are working to address this challenge. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) addresses this under its unruly passenger guidelines. The Montréal Protocol 2014 (MP 14) aims to strengthen legal jurisdiction for such crimes. This allows the state where the aircraft lands to prosecute offenders. This measure is crucial for international flights like the one operated by EasyJet. The conviction in Scotland demonstrates the effective use of national law. It enforces the global standard against disruptive behavior.

This case serves as a clear deterrent. It reinforces the commitment of law enforcement and the courts. They aim to ensure passenger safety and security at all times.

• Nicola Cristiano received a six-year jail term for attempted rape on a May 2025 EasyJet flight.
• The conviction and sentence align with international efforts, including the Montréal Protocol 2014, to prosecute unruly passengers.
• The FBI reported 104 in-flight sexual assault cases in 2024, reflecting a broader industry challenge to airline passenger safety.
• The victim reported the assault immediately, leading to the offender's arrest at Edinburgh Airport.

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