In a striking case of aviation fraud, a federal jury has convicted 35-year-old Tiron Alexander of wire fraud and unauthorized airport access after posing as a flight attendant to obtain more than 120 free flights over a six-year period.
The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed the conviction on Tuesday. Alexander reportedly exploited airline employee booking systems, intended only for active crew members, by falsely claiming employment with at least seven different airlines. Prosecutors revealed he used approximately 30 fake badge numbers and fabricated hire dates to back up his claims.
Between 2018 and 2024, Alexander successfully boarded 34 unpaid flights under these false credentials. Investigators also discovered he had impersonated staff from three additional carriers during the course of his scheme.
The case was led by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael C. Shepherd, Zachary A. Keller, and Andres E. Chinchilla. U.S. District Judge Jacqueline Becerra will determine his sentence on August 25, 2025.
Authorities emphasized the serious breach of airport security and the risk such actions pose to public safety.
