Couple arrested after allegedly throwing coffee at airline employees, forcing way onto Cancun flight

A Florida couple’s dream vacation to Cancún quickly turned into a nightmare after they allegedly assaulted airport employees who denied them boarding for arriving late to their flight. Rafael Seirafe-Novaes, 40, and Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia, 29, were arrested on March 2 after the incident unfolded at Miami International Airport. According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the couple was scheduled to board an American Airlines flight, but their tardiness led to a heated confrontation with airport staff. Shocking video footage captured the altercation, which began when the pair arrived late for their 8:35 a.m. flight and attempted to force their way onto the plane despite being denied access.

The situation escalated when Seirafe-Novaes and Maia ignored clear no-trespassing signs and verbal commands from a ticket agent. Authorities claim the couple bypassed security measures and pushed through staff to gain access to the restricted jet bridge. Seirafe-Novaes is accused of pushing two victims, while Maia allegedly pushed the victims and threw coffee at them, as detailed in the arrest report obtained by WSVN. The video shows Seirafe-Novaes eventually being escorted in handcuffs to a police car on the tarmac, marking the end of the chaotic incident. American Airlines confirmed the disturbing event, stating that law enforcement was called to the gate due to the couple’s disruptive behavior.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, American Airlines condemned the actions of the couple, emphasizing that acts of violence are not tolerated by the airline. The company also confirmed it is working closely with law enforcement to investigate the incident. While it remains unclear whether the couple will be banned from future American Airlines flights, the immediate consequences of their actions were severe. The flight, which was delayed due to the altercation, arrived in Cancún nearly half an hour late, though the couple was notably absent from the passenger list.

Both Seirafe-Novaes and Maia faced criminal charges as a result of their actions. Seirafe-Novaes was charged with resisting an officer without violence and trespassing, while Maia was charged with two counts of battery and trespassing. The couple was able to post bond for their release on Monday, but the legal implications of their actions could extend far beyond their initial detention. According to the Department of Justice, committing acts of intentional violence in an international airport is a federal crime, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of violent behavior in airports.

The incident also highlights the growing issue of disruptive passenger behavior in airports and on flights. Air travel, especially in recent years, has seen a surge in such incidents, many of which involve verbal or physical altercations between passengers and staff. This case, however, stands out due to the brazen nature of the couple’s actions and the clear evidence captured on video. The video, which has likely been reviewed by law enforcement, provides a vivid account of the altercation and underscores the importance of maintaining order and respect in airport environments.

In conclusion, what was supposed to be a relaxing getaway for Rafael Seirafe-Novaes and Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia turned into a legal and public relations disaster. Their actions not only disrupted the travel plans of other passengers but also drew widespread attention to the challenges faced by airport staff and law enforcement in maintaining safety and order. As the couple faces the possibility of severe penalties, their story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of losing control in high-stress situations like air travel. The incident also raises broader questions about airport security measures and how to prevent similar disruptions in the future.