Two Women Arrested After Refusing to Leave American Airlines Flight at MIA

MIAMI — Two passengers were arrested at Miami International Airport following an incident in which they allegedly occupied first-class seats despite holding coach tickets and refused law enforcement orders to exit an American Airlines aircraft.

According to police reports, the incident occurred around Jan. 10, 2026, on what aviation sources believe was American Airlines Flight 1816 from Miami to Phoenix. The confrontation began as a baggage fee dispute where passengers refused to pay carry-on fees but boarded anyway. Once aboard, they allegedly moved to first-class seats they had not purchased. When ordered to leave the aircraft, both women refused and were arrested.

Both passengers were transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and later released on $500 bonds each. The incident caused a delay of more than an hour. Social media analysis suggests the women may be Sania Blanchard and Lacey Jayne, though law enforcement has not officially confirmed these identifications. The case highlights ongoing challenges airlines face with passenger compliance and unauthorized seating, following similar incidents including a September 2025 Frontier Airlines case involving passenger removal.