South Florida Man Convicted for Fraudulently Booking Over 120 Airline Flights

Conviction Details

A South Florida man, Tiron Alexander, aged 35, was convicted by a federal jury on June 5 for committing significant airline fraud, as announced by the U.S. Department of Justice. He was found guilty of wire fraud and unlawfully entering a secure airport area, actions that allowed him to fraudulently book more than 120 airline flights at no cost.

Exploiting Airline Programs

Between the years of 2018 and 2024, Alexander manipulated an airline's employee flight booking system, which is intended exclusively for staff members. He impersonated a flight attendant using false credentials and was able to board 34 flights without going through regular payment channels. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that he provided fake information, including approximately 30 fictitious badge numbers and hire dates while claiming affiliation with seven different airlines.

Broad Scope of Fraud

In addition to exploiting the employee booking system, Alexander expanded his fraudulent activities by impersonating a flight attendant across three other airline carriers, thereby broadening the scale of his deceptive practices. Jurors were informed that this elaborate scheme not only defrauded the airlines but raised concerns about the integrity of airport security measures.

Upcoming Sentencing

Sentencing for Alexander is set for August 25, where he faces a maximum of 30 years in federal prison for his actions. The case was rigorously investigated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Atlanta Field Office, emphasizing the necessity of tackling fraudulent activities in the airline industry.

TSA's Stance on Security

Following the conviction, a spokesperson for the TSA praised the guilty verdict, underscoring the outcome was achieved through effective collaboration between the agency, the Department of Justice, and various law enforcement bodies. The spokesperson indicated that while Alexander managed to obtain boarding passes unlawfully, he underwent all necessary TSA security protocols, including ID checks and physical screenings, reinforcing that he did not pose a direct threat to other airline passengers. The TSA remains committed to securing air travel and intends to pursue those who violate aviation laws.

Prosecutorial Team

The case was announced by U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O'Byrne and Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge, Antonio L. Pittman, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael C. Shepherd, Zachary A. Keller, and Andres E. Chinchilla leading the prosecution.