Passenger Could Face Up To 20 Years After Alleged Assaults On Etihad Flight To Washington

A passenger aboard Etihad Airways flight EY 5 is accused of assaulting multiple flight attendants during a Feb. 13 nonstop flight from Abu Dhabi to Washington Dulles International Airport, according to an FBI affidavit obtained by PEOPLE. Authorities say the disturbance occurred roughly seven hours into the 15-hour journey.

What Allegedly Happened

The FBI affidavit states that 40-year-old Sophiyaa Sahu first began loudly confronting a flight attendant. When the crew member attempted to move away, Sahu allegedly 'kicked him in the hip area above the left buttocks and near his lower back' while wearing black heeled boots. The affidavit, prepared by FBI agent Marc Gastaldo, says Sahu then climbed onto her seat and screamed obscenities.

The black boots allegedly worn by SahuFBI affidavit prepared by agent Marc Gastaldo

When the flight manager intervened, the affidavit alleges Sahu pushed the manager's shoulder three to four times and then slapped the manager's hand as they raised it to block another push. Crew members prepared a restraint kit, and Sahu remained seated for the rest of the flight.

Witnesses, Arrival and Statements

Multiple passengers interviewed by the FBI reported witnessing the alleged attacks and told investigators that Sahu hurled profanity at crew members, including calling them 'whores' and 'mother f—ers.' One witness estimated her shouting lasted 20 to 30 minutes.

Washington Dulles International AirportGetty

Upon arrival at Washington Dulles, authorities met Sahu, who presented a U.S. passport and an Illinois ID. She spoke with agents and denied kicking, pushing or slapping the crew, though she admitted standing on her seat and 'making a public speech to the cabin.' She told agents she was provoked by what she described as inappropriate comments and gestures by a flight attendant.

Charges And Next Steps

Prosecutors have charged Sahu with assault by beating, striking and wounding, and with interference with flight crew members. The interference charge can carry a maximum prison term of up to 20 years if she is convicted. Sahu is scheduled to appear at a hearing on Feb. 20. PEOPLE reports that the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and Sahu’s attorney were contacted for comment.

Affidavit Note: The allegation details and witness accounts come from an FBI affidavit prepared by Agent Marc Gastaldo and statements collected after the flight.

Context: Incidents of alleged violence or interference aboard aircraft are treated seriously under federal law because they endanger crew members and passengers and can disrupt international flights.