Repeat Stowaway Accused of Flying Without Ticket Again

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A woman named Svetlana Dali, who was already serving probation for flying without a ticket, has been accused of being a stowaway on another flight from Newark, New Jersey to Milan, Italy. Dali was not discovered until the plane was already airborne over the Atlantic Ocean, and the flight lasted over 7 hours. United Airlines, which operated the trans-Atlantic flight, is investigating the incident and working with authorities.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing security concerns at airports, as well as the challenges in preventing repeat offenders from attempting to bypass airline protocols. Dali's previous conviction for a similar incident raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in deterring such behavior.

The details

Svetlana Dali, a Russian national, was taken into custody when the plane landed in Milan. She had allegedly blended in with airline staff to bypass a security station at Newark Liberty International Airport, and then boarded the flight by blending in with what appeared to be a family. Dali had hidden in a bathroom for most of the flight, given a false name when asked, and eventually taken a seat before being arrested by French police upon arrival.

• Dali was convicted last year for flying to Paris without a passport or ticket in 2024.
• Dali was released in July for time served, but was not allowed to knowingly leave the federal judicial district where she was allowed to live without getting permission first.
• The latest incident occurred on a flight that took off from Newark, New Jersey and landed in Milan, Italy.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Investigators are reviewing security footage from Newark Liberty International Airport and the surrounding area to determine how Dali was able to bypass security and board the flight.