Actress Selma Blair was arrested Sunday night after authorities say she tried to open a plane door mid-flight and then allegedly punched one flight attendant and bit another aboard a Delta Air Lines flight bound for New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.
The incident occurred on Delta Flight 938 from Los Angeles International Airport. Port Authority of New York and New Jersey police responded around 11 p.m. after the plane arrived and was parked at the gate, citing a report of a “physically abusive passenger.” Blair, 54, was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for evaluation. Two flight attendants reported injuries, and one was taken to the hospital for treatment. The FBI is investigating the matter.
According to reports and law enforcement sources, the confrontation began when Blair allegedly attempted to open the aircraft door while the flight was airborne, leading to a physical altercation with crew members. Dispatch audio referenced injuries that included a bloody nose and bite marks, and the flight crew reportedly restrained Blair before landing. She was also said to have struck her head against a bulkhead.
A representative for Blair said the actress “experienced a medical emergency that led to the alleged conduct.” The representative added that upon landing she “received immediate medical attention and is currently in stable condition.” Blair remains hospitalized for evaluation as the investigation continues. It is not yet clear whether she will face criminal charges related to the in-flight incident.
Delta Air Lines said the flight landed ahead of schedule with no operational impact and that law enforcement met the aircraft upon arrival. In a statement, the airline said it “has zero tolerance for unruly or unlawful behavior, as the safety of our customers and crew always comes first.”
Blair is known for roles in films including Legally Blonde, Cruel Intentions, and Hellboy. She publicly disclosed a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2018 and has since advocated for disability rights. She was traveling with a service dog at the time of the incident, according to sources.
